1974 Mazda 818 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 1988 Renault 21 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 21 (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda 818 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1988 Renault 21.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 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 1974 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Renault 21 (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda 818 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 818 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2550 mm |
