1983 BMW 316 vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 1983 BMW 316 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,765 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 316 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1983 BMW 316 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1972 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1972 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 316 | 1972 Renault 12 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 316 | 12 |
Year Released | 1983 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1289 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 94 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 77 mm |
Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 906 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 56 L |