1980 Renault 5 vs. 1961 Renault 4
To start off, 1980 Renault 5 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1961 Renault 4. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1961 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Renault 5 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1961 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Renault 5 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Renault 4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1980 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Renault 4. (51 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 5 | 1961 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 5 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 110 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 34 L |
