1991 Renault 21 vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Renault 21 (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Renault 21 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2005 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 2005 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Renault 21 (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1991 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Renault 21 | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | 21 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 1820 mm |
