1986 Renault 21 vs. 1989 Volvo 240
To start off, 1989 Volvo 240 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,067 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 240 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (87 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 240 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Volvo 240 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 1989 Volvo 240. 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 (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 1989 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | 21 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2067 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
