1999 BMW 540 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 871 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 540 (439 Nm) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 540 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 540 | 12 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 439 Nm | 94 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |