1972 Ford GT 40 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1978 Renault 18 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Because 1972 Ford GT 40 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 Ford GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Renault 18 (103 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 1978 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford GT 40 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | GT 40 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2450 mm |
