1981 Renault 18 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 27 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 186 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 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Renault 18. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 626 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Renault 18 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 18 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
