1991 Mazda 323 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 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, 1991 Mazda 323 (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 18 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323.
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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
