1997 Honda NSX vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 393 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda NSX 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 1997 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1997 Honda NSX (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda NSX | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | NSX | 21 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1498 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2820 mm |
