1974 Renault 12 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 37 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 770 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Renault 12 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Renault | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 12 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
