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Renault 18 Variable (135) 1.6 Turbo (125 Hp)
Overall Rating
Renault 18:
The Renault 18 is a large family car produced by French manufacturer Renault between 1978 and 1989, with South American production continuing until 1994. It formed the basis for the closely related Renault Fuego Coupé, with which it shared its floorpan and drivetrain, but with the Fuego initially using the negative offset type front suspension from the larger Renault 20/30, which became standardized across the 18 range from the 1983 model year onwards.
The Renault 18 was intended as a replacement for the Renault 12, which, having been in production since 1969, was beginning to show its age by the late 1970s, though the 12 was kept in production alongside the 18 until 1980. Unlike the earlier car, the 18 was designed quickly; the time between its initial conception and its actual launch date was only eighteen months, primarily due to the fact that the 18 was based upon the 12's underpinnings. Production peaked early: 1979 was the R18's biggest year, after which sales began a gradual decline. Originally, the 1. 4 was the most popular model, but this soon changed to the 1. 6. By 1986 the largest, 2-liter engine represented the biggest portion of the production....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Variable (135) Overview:
Renault 18 (Variable (135)). A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 0 makes it ideal for daily use.
1.6 Turbo (125 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The most powerful petrol variant, offering impressive acceleration and high-speed cruising capability for its time, transforming the driving experience into a genuinely quick estate.
Fuel Economy
Expectedly less economical than naturally aspirated versions, especially when driven hard, but offers a good power-to-economy balance for a turbo engine of its era.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Wide range of engine options including 4x4 and turbo variants
- • Comfortable and compliant ride for its class
- • Practical and spacious estate body style, ideal for families
- • Good fuel economy on diesel variants for long-distance travel
- • Generally robust and durable for its era, with simple mechanics
Cons:
- • Safety features are basic by modern standards, lacking advanced systems
- • Performance can be modest on lower-spec engines, especially when loaded
- • Susceptible to rust, particularly in older models and specific areas
- • Interior plastics and build quality were not always premium
- • Lack of modern amenities and driver aids
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Variable (135): 1981 - 1986).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Renault |
| Model: | 18 |
| Generation: | Variable (135) |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.6 Turbo (125 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1982 |
| End of production: | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 125 Hp Same horsepower |
| Engine Model/Code: | A5L 807-17 More details about the engine A5L 807-17 |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.3 l |
| Coolant: | 6.3 l |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 57 l |
Your first impression of the Renault 18 in one word? Go!