2006 BMW 545 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2006 BMW 545 is newer by 32 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 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 545 weights approximately 885 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 2006 BMW 545 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 2006 BMW 545. 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, 2006 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2006 BMW 545 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 545 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 545 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 545 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
