2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW Z3 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z3 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
