2005 Nissan Altima vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 15 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 2,490 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1990 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 341 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 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 21. (129 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Altima | 21 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1361 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2820 mm |
