2008 Pontiac Torrent vs. 1978 Renault 4

To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 845 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2008 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Pontiac Torrent 1978 Renault 4
Make Pontiac Renault
Model Torrent 4
Year Released 2008 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3425 cc 1108 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 185 HP 34 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 72 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 715 kg
Vehicle Length 4800 mm 3670 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1490 mm
Vehicle Height 1770 mm 1560 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2410 mm