1986 Renault 21 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 11 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 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 117 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 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (135 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Renault 21 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | 21 | W12 |
Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1721 cc | 5584 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90.3 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1152 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1010 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2540 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |