2003 Renault Megane vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (132 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 223 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.
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, 2003 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | Megane | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 53 L |
