1986 Renault 21 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Renault 21 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (66 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 324 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (126 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
