1964 AC Cobra vs. 1984 Renault 18
To start off, 1984 Renault 18 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1964 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 AC Cobra (267 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1984 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1984 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 AC Cobra weights approximately 20 kg more than 1984 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 AC Cobra 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 1964 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1964 AC Cobra (426 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1964 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 AC Cobra | 1984 Renault 18 | |
| Make | AC | Renault |
| Model | Cobra | 18 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4737 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 426 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
