2008 BMW 316 vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 421 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 2008 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 2008 BMW 316 (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 316 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
