2003 BMW 320 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 360 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 2003 BMW 320 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 2003 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2003 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 320 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
