1996 BMW 740 vs. 1974 Renault 12

To start off, 1996 BMW 740 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 740 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 740 weights approximately 995 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 BMW 740 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 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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 740 (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1996 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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