1980 Renault 18 vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 295 kg more than 1980 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 18. 2004 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1980 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1980 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 18 | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Renault | Saturn |
| Model | 18 | L |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1645 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
