2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 31 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 140 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.
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, 2009 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18. 2009 Ford Taurus 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. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Taurus | 18 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1645 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 53 L |
