2001 BMW X5 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2001 BMW X5 is newer by 27 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW X5 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 1120 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 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 BMW X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW X5 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | X5 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
