2008 BMW 523 vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 30 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 423 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 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 523 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
