1996 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 15 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1981 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
