1997 BMW S3 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 S3 (330 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (136 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | S3 | 18 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1647 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 78 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 136 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |