1978 Renault 18 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (178 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 588 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Renault 18. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 18 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 18 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
