2009 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 19 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 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1990 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 590 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.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Renault 21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | A3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2820 mm |
