2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 31 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 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1978 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 780 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | Spider | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2450 mm |
