1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1975 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1975 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 Z3 (180 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z3 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
