2003 Proton 400 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 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 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Renault 18 (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Proton 400 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Proton | Renault |
| Model | 400 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
