1957 Austin A 40 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 18 (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1957 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Austin A 40 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1981 Renault 18.
Because 1957 Austin A 40 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 1957 Austin A 40. 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, 1981 Renault 18 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin A 40. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Austin A 40 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
Make | Austin | Renault |
Model | A 40 | 18 |
Year Released | 1957 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1647 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 100 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1410 mm |