1978 Renault 18 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 410 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. 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, 2003 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 18 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 18 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
