2003 BMW 320 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 25 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. Both 2003 BMW 320 and 1978 Renault 18 are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 398 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 2003 BMW 320 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 2003 BMW 320. 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, 2003 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 320 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 53 L |
