2003 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 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. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 905 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 X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Renault 18. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | X3 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1410 mm |
