1964 AC Cobra vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1986 Renault 21 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1964 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 AC Cobra (267 HP) has 200 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1964 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1964 AC Cobra.
Because 1964 AC Cobra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1964 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1964 AC Cobra (426 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1964 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 AC Cobra | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | AC | Renault |
| Model | Cobra | 21 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4737 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 426 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2670 mm |
