1981 Renault 18 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 25 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 400 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.
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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Renault 18 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Renault | Saturn |
| Model | 18 | ION |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
