1971 Austin 3 vs. 1986 Renault 18
To start off, 1986 Renault 18 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Austin 3 (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1986 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Austin 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1986 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. 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, 1971 Austin 3 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 18. (163 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1971 Austin 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 1986 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | 3 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
