2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 590 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 950 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
