2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 650 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 Cadillac CTS 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 Cadillac CTS. 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 Cadillac CTS (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Renault |
| Model | CTS | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 53 L |
