1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1980 Renault 18
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 18 would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (415 HP) has 335 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (80 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 481 kg more than 1980 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Dodge Viper 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 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 528 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 18. (136 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1980 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Dodge | Renault |
| Model | Viper | 18 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
