1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Renault 18
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Renault 18 (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 135 kg more than 1985 Renault 18.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Renault 18. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1985 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1985 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | A | 18 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
