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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 21 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1988 Renault 21.
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, 1988 Renault 21 (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 | 1596 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| 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 | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
