1985 AC Cobra vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 1988 Renault 21 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 AC Cobra (223 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 AC Cobra weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 AC Cobra. 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, 1985 AC Cobra (407 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | AC | Renault |
| Model | Cobra | 21 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
