1989 Renault 21 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Renault 21 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,067 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Renault 21 (106 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Renault 21 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Renault 21 (159 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 1989 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Renault 21 | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2067 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
