2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1977 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1977 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 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1977 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1977 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1977 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 166 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
