1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Javelin weights approximately 442 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 AMC Javelin 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 1972 AMC Javelin. 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (387 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18. 1972 AMC Javelin has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Javelin will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | AMC | Renault |
| Model | Javelin | 18 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1467 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
