1999 MCC Smart vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 1999 MCC Smart 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 38 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Renault 21 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 MCC Smart 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 1999 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Renault 21 (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart. 1999 MCC Smart has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 MCC Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 MCC Smart | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | MCC | Renault |
| Model | Smart | 21 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2820 mm |
