2000 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 410 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
