2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 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 1,774 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 440 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.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
