2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 529 kg more than 1979 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 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
