2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 1980 Renault 18
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 18 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 540 kg more than 1980 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 1980 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | 350Z | 18 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
