1970 Matra-Simca M530 vs. 1986 Renault 18
To start off, 1986 Renault 18 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Matra-Simca M530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Matra-Simca M530 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Matra-Simca M530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Matra-Simca M530 (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Matra-Simca M530 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 18 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1970 Matra-Simca M530.
Because 1970 Matra-Simca M530 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 1970 Matra-Simca M530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1970 Matra-Simca M530 (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 18. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Matra-Simca M530 | 1986 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Matra-Simca | Renault |
| Model | M530 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1986 |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
