2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1988 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, 2008 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
