1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1985 Renault 18
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 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 1,395 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1985 Renault 18. (63 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1985 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 162 kg more than 1985 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 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1985 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
