2009 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1987 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1987 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, 2009 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Renault 21. (130 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Renault 21. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1987 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1987 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1987 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 176 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
