1998 Honda NSX vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1998 Honda NSX 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (87 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda NSX weights approximately 329 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 Honda NSX (304 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda NSX | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Honda | Renault |
| Model | NSX | 21 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2067 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1464 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |
