1989 Citroen XM vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 3 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 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 285 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, 1989 Citroen XM (235 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 1989 Citroen XM 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. 1989 Citroen XM will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | XM | 21 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2760 mm |
