2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 2006 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z4 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
