1986 Renault 21 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 366 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 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Renault 21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1321 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
