1985 Renault 18 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,395 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 283 kg more than 1985 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Renault 18 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 18 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1395 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
