2003 Acura CL vs. 1990 Renault Clio

To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault Clio would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura CL (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1990 Renault Clio. (48 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 770 kg more than 1990 Renault Clio. 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, 2003 Acura CL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault Clio. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault Clio. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1990 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 1990 Renault Clio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura CL 1990 Renault Clio
Make Acura Renault
Model CL Clio
Year Released 2003 1990
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Size 3210 cc 1108 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 223 HP 48 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 81 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 70 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 72 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1400 mm