1986 Renault Alpine vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 1986 Renault Alpine is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,458 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Renault Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault Alpine (200 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault Alpine should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault Alpine weights approximately 282 kg more than 1978 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Renault 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 1986 Renault Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1986 Renault Alpine (285 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Renault Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault Alpine | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | Alpine | 12 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 56 L |
