1999 BMW 330 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 669 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 330 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 1999 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1999 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 330 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 906 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 | 88 L | 56 L |
