2001 Alpina B3 vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2001 Alpina B3 is newer by 15 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alpina B3 (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (87 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alpina B3 weights approximately 345 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 2001 Alpina B3 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 2001 Alpina B3. 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, 2001 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alpina B3 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Alpina | Renault |
| Model | B3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2067 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
