2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 390 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 Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 Z4 (250 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z4 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |
