1989 Renault 21 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 23 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (91 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1989 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 T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Renault 21 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 21 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 3010 mm |
