2008 BMW 330 vs. 1980 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1980 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 641 kg more than 1980 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 330 (390 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 12. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1980 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 330 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 954 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 |
