why do people think the LINN LP 12 is so superior to the Thorens (say 165 super)


I don't think LINN people are snobs, but I think they are very passionate about their TTs and are convinced that what they own is the better of the two.

AR invented the 3 point suspension + belt system, Thorens ran with it, then LINN saw it and made their own tweeks in scotland. 

I happen to own a Thorens 160td that I picked up for $50 which freed up some $$ to play with it, A little dampening here, a thicker bottom plate there, Cone feet, Sumuko pearl stylus. To me, it sounds great. 

When my LINN-owning friends visit, they make comments like "when are you going to step up and buy a LINN?"

Now maybe they are just joking around, like the chevy owner razzing the ford owner, but I don't think so. I think they really believe LINN is superior. 

Why?
robvolz
If it is such a great turntable why all the continual upgrades?
The same could be said of your 911 !
@noromance   LOL! +1...
Folks, mijostyn knows more about Linn LP12's than anyone on this forum. Particularly since he last owned one back in the 80's...if then!
linn is musical, quiet and well behaved. more less lifely side.. think Roger speaker.

thorens is even more spice, musical and grunt. less neat sounding..

acquired taste really. 
If you really want to piss off your LP12 friends get a Heybrook TT2 with aluminum sub-chassis.
That will shut them up once and for all.
The Linn's heavier platter gives it better speed stability/more inertia. I have a LP12 and a TD160. Both can sound fine!