1996 BMW 332 vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 BMW 332 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 332 | 1980 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 332 | 12 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 323 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |