2001 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 2001 Alpina B3 is newer by 23 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 3,348 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alpina B3 weights approximately 745 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 2001 Alpina B3 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 2001 Alpina B3. 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, 2001 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alpina B3 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alpina | Renault |
| Model | B3 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3348 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
