2008 Opel Astra vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 18 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1990 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 245 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | 21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2820 mm |
