1978 Renault Alpine vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault Alpine would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Renault Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault Alpine (148 HP) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault Alpine should accelerate faster than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1978 Renault Alpine (204 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm). This means 1978 Renault Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault Alpine has manual transmission. 1978 Renault Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault Alpine | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | Alpine | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
