1945 Austin 16 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1945 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1945 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1945 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 63 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1945 Austin 16 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1981 Renault 18.
Because 1945 Austin 16 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 1945 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18, 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, 1945 Austin 16 (147 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1945 Austin 16 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1945 Austin 16 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | 16 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1945 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
