1978 Renault 4 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 18 (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 18 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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, 1981 Renault 18 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 4 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1410 mm |
