2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1987 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1987 Renault 21. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1987 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 252 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.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Renault 21, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Renault 21. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Renault 21. 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1987 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Frontier | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5580 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2610 mm |
