1955 Porsche 550 A vs. 1980 Renault 18
To start off, 1980 Renault 18 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Porsche 550 A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Porsche 550 A (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Porsche 550 A should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Renault 18 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1955 Porsche 550 A.
Because 1955 Porsche 550 A 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 Porsche 550 A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Porsche 550 A | 1980 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Porsche | Renault |
| Model | 550 A | 18 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2450 mm |
