1986 Renault 21 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (90 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 141 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.
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 (182 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2067 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1133 kg | 1274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
