1996 Beijing BJ 2021 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,466 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Beijing BJ 2021 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Beijing | Renault |
| Model | BJ 2021 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 2466 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
