1996 Proton 400 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 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 Proton 400 (67 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 400 weights approximately 65 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Proton | Renault |
| Model | 400 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 66 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
