1997 BMW 318 vs. 1982 Renault 18
To start off, 1997 BMW 318 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1982 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1982 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1982 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 1982 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
