2005 Alpina B7 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Alpina B7 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alpina B7 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 439 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alpina B7 weights approximately 1000 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 2005 Alpina B7 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 2005 Alpina B7. 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, 2005 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 604 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12. 2005 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1974 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1974 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alpina B7 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alpina | Renault |
| Model | B7 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2450 mm |
