2003 Acura RSX vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 17 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. Both 2003 Acura RSX and 1986 Renault 21 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 131 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.
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 RSX (192 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Acura | Renault |
| Model | RSX | 21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
