2004 BMW 318 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 25 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 520 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 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 318 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 318 | 12 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |