2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1988 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 Alfa Romeo 156 (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
