1999 Citroen C3 vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 1999 Citroen C3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen C3 (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1990 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen C3 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1990 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, 1999 Citroen C3 (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 21. 1999 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1990 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen C3 | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | C3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3680 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2820 mm |
