1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1983 Renault 18
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1983 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1983 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Renault 18 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Renault 18 (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1983 Renault 18 | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | Super 7 | 18 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1647 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 84 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1410 mm |