2008 BMW X3 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 35 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 830 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 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | X3 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 56 L |
