1974 Fiat 500 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 18 (87 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 500. (18 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 500.
Because 1974 Fiat 500 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 1974 Fiat 500. 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, 1981 Renault 18 (181 Nm) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 500. (27 Nm). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 500 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 500 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 87 HP |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
