1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1986 Renault 21.
Because 1986 Renault 21 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (275 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
