1980 Ford Taunus vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1986 Renault 21 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Taunus 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 (75 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Taunus weights approximately 65 kg more than 1986 Renault 21.
Because 1980 Ford Taunus 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 1980 Ford Taunus. 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 (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Taunus. (93 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Taunus | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Taunus | 21 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
