1998 Honda Accord vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1998 Honda Accord is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda Accord (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda Accord weights approximately 415 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. 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, 1998 Honda Accord (265 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1998 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda Accord | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | Accord | 18 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
