1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 580 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 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 450 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 89 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2450 mm |
