1999 Mazda 121 vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 1999 Mazda 121 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Renault 21 (91 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Renault 21 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1999 Mazda 121. 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, 1989 Renault 21 (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 121 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 121 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2820 mm |
