1986 Renault 21 vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 23 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 1,719 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (87 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 2009 Smart ForTwo. 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 (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 21 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1719 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 72.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 33 L |
