1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 18 (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (13 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 18 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | 2CV | 18 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
