2007 Opel Speedster vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2007 Opel Speedster is newer by 29 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), 2007 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Speedster (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Speedster weights approximately 35 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.
Because 2007 Opel Speedster 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 2007 Opel Speedster. 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, 2007 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Opel Speedster | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Speedster | 18 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 53 L |
