1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 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 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 830 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 18 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
