1978 Renault 18 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 26 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 366 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 18 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 18 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1645 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
