2009 BMW 125 vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 426 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 2009 BMW 125 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 125 | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 125 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1289 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 |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 56 L |
