1981 Renault 18 vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 30 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 462 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Renault 18 | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Renault | Nissan |
| Model | 18 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2675 mm |
