2003 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 30 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 542 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 2003 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | M3 | 12 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1288 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 900 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 56 L |