1986 Renault 21 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 26 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 425 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1986 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1986 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
