2008 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 82 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 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus. 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 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Focus | 18 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
