1998 BMW 318 vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (113 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1969 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 89 L |
