2003 Opel Astra vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra and 1986 Renault 21 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault 21 (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 250 kg more than 1986 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, 2003 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 2003 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | 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 | 82 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
