1977 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 3 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. Both 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider and 1974 Renault 12 are equipped with a 1,289 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 30 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 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider 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 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider. 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, 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider (121 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | Spider | 12 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2450 mm |
