1985 Jaguar XJS vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1985 Jaguar XJS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 5,343 cc (12 cylinders), 1985 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Jaguar XJS (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 795 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Jaguar XJS 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 1985 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1985 Jaguar XJS (432 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Jaguar XJS | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Renault |
| Model | XJS | 18 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5343 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 432 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 60 L |
