1997 Mazda 121 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 1997 Mazda 121 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 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 34 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. 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, 1978 Renault 18 (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 121 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
