1978 Renault 18 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 34 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 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (104 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 63 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (175 Nm @ 1550 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 18 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 18 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1647 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1088 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1462 mm |
