1981 Renault 18 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 260 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 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18, 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 Volvo 260 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Renault 18 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 18 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 2848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
