1974 Renault 12 vs. 1971 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Sunbeam Alpine (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Sunbeam Alpine should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Sunbeam Alpine 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 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. 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, 1971 Sunbeam Alpine (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1971 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Renault | Sunbeam |
| Model | 12 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1971 |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
