2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 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. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 205 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 1986 Renault 21 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1986 Renault 21 (275 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1986 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1986 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 166 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2670 mm |
