1998 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire 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 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 175 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 Pontiac Sunfire (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Pontiac Sunfire | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Renault |
| Model | Sunfire | 18 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
