1996 Ford Escort vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort 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 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 30 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, 1981 Renault 18 (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 18 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 66 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
