1981 Renault 18 vs. 1989 TVR Speed Eight
To start off, 1989 TVR Speed Eight is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 18 would be higher. At 3,947 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR Speed Eight is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR Speed Eight should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 TVR Speed Eight weights approximately 135 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 1989 TVR Speed Eight 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 1989 TVR Speed Eight. 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, 1989 TVR Speed Eight (340 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 TVR Speed Eight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Renault 18 | 1989 TVR Speed Eight | |
| Make | Renault | TVR |
| Model | 18 | Speed Eight |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 3947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
