2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 18 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 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 695 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (142 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | 7 | 21 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2068 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2820 mm |