1989 Renault 21 vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1996 TVR Chimaera is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (91 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Renault 21 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 1996 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Renault 21 | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Renault | TVR |
| Model | 21 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2290 mm |
