1978 Renault 18 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1978 Renault 18 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 18 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Renault | Wartburg |
| Model | 18 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
