2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 27 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 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (396 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 2005 Lotus Exige. 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (400 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Exige | 18 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 396 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2450 mm |
