Renault 18 Variable (135) 2.1 Diesel (1354) (67 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.1 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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)). With 130 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.5 l/100km). Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 148 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.1 Diesel (1354) (67 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

While not powerful, this diesel engine offers excellent torque for its output, making it a durable and economical workhorse, albeit with leisurely acceleration.

Fuel Economy

Outstanding fuel economy for its time, making it the most cost-effective option for high-mileage drivers, especially on longer routes and for utility.

Best Use Case: High Mileage Commuting & Utility

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): 1979 - 1982).

General:
Brand:Renault
Model:18
Generation:Variable (135)
Modification (Engine):2.1 Diesel (1354) (67 Hp)
Start of production:1980
End of production:1986
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:67 Hp @ 4300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:32.4 Hp/l [worst than previous generation]
Torque:130 Nm
Engine Model/Code:J8S 852-10 More details about the engine J8S 852-10
Engine displacement:2068
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:6.3 l
Coolant:8.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Compression ratio:21:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.5 l/100 km
Maximum speed:148 km/h
Space:
Fuel tank capacity:57 l
Size:
Length:4520 mm mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc [bad for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size175/70 R13
Wheel rims size13
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionRigid axle suspension

The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Renault 18!