1986 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 5 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 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 18 (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 18 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1981 Renault 18 (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 18 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
