1964 Austin A 40 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 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1964 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1964 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin A 40 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 Austin A 40. 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, 1986 Renault 21 (135 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin A 40. (82 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin A 40 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 38 L |
