1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1985 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. 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 Mazda RX-7 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda RX-7 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-7 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
