2002 BMW 330 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 2002 BMW 330 is newer by 21 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 330 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 330 weights approximately 590 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.
Because 2002 BMW 330 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 2002 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2002 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 330 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 330 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
