1974 Renault 12 vs. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 15 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 1,962 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 250 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 1989 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Renault | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 12 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
