2004 Alpina Roadster vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2004 Alpina Roadster is newer by 30 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina Roadster (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 670 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.
Because 2004 Alpina Roadster 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 2004 Alpina Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 2004 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina Roadster | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alpina | Renault |
| Model | Roadster | 12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 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 | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
