2008 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 243 kg more than 1978 Renault 18.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 18 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 18 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | 18 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 53 L |
