1998 Acura NSX vs. 1979 Renault 18
To start off, 1998 Acura NSX is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 18 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura NSX (291 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1979 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 18.
Because 1998 Acura NSX 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 1998 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1998 Acura NSX (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura NSX | 1979 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Acura | Renault |
| Model | NSX | 18 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1410 mm |
