1998 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 24 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 450 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, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Renault |
| Model | Alero | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
