1988 Renault 21 vs. 2006 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2006 Toyota MR2 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 21 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2006 Toyota MR2.
Because 2006 Toyota MR2 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 2006 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2006 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Renault 21 | 2006 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Renault | Toyota |
| Model | 21 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2460 mm |
