2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 280 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
