2008 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 27 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 780 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 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1981 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | X3 | 18 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
