1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1978 Renault 18 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 578 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fairthorpe Atom 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 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1978 Renault 18 | |
Make | Fairthorpe | Renault |
Model | Atom | 18 |
Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 322 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 15 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 6.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |