2004 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault 21 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1990 Renault 21. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1990 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 21. (271 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 21. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1990 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
