2009 BMW 550 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 307 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 393 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 550 | 12 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 489 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |