2002 Maserati Spyder vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2002 Maserati Spyder is newer by 24 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 4,253 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Maserati Spyder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Maserati Spyder (390 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Maserati Spyder should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Maserati Spyder weights approximately 685 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 2002 Maserati Spyder 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 Maserati Spyder. 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, 2002 Maserati Spyder (451 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Maserati Spyder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Maserati Spyder | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Maserati | Renault |
| Model | Spyder | 18 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4253 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
