2009 BMW 523 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 523 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
