Renault 18
The quintessential French family saloon of the late seventies and early eighties.
- Power
- 64 bhp
- Top speed
- 95 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$6k
About the Renault 18
The Renault 18 was launched in 1978 as a replacement for the aging Renault 12, designed to be a 'world car' with production eventually spanning several continents. The GTL trim was the mid-range offering, featuring the 1.4-litre 'Cléon-Fonte' engine which prioritised fuel economy and reliability over outright performance. It was praised for its exceptional ride comfort and soft seating, typical of French cars of the era, though its handling was characterised by significant body roll. While millions were produced, survival rates are low due to rust issues, making well-preserved examples increasingly rare on European roads.
Renault 18 specs
The Renault 18 produces 64 bhp (48 kW) and 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 95 mph (153 km/h).
| Make | Renault |
|---|---|
| Model | 18 |
| Trim | 1.4 GTL |
| Years | 1978–1989 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | France |
| Engine | 1.4-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc (1.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 64 bhp (48 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 95 mph (153 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 920 kg (2,028 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 70 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Renault 18 worth?
A typical Renault 18 is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $6,000 (about £1,100 – £4,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Renault 18 rarity in CarSpot
The Renault 18 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 14 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Renault 18 fun facts
- The Renault 18 was the first Renault model to be designed with the aid of computer-aided design (CAD) techniques.
- Despite its French origins, the Renault 18 was sold in the United States through American Motors Corporation (AMC) dealers as the Renault 18i and Sportwagon.
- The 1.4-litre Cléon-Fonte engine used in the GTL was a remarkably long-lived design, also appearing in the Renault 5, 12, and even the early Twingo.