France vs France — 1962 vs 1989
| Caravelle 1100S Convertible | 21 Turbo Quadra | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 55 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 61 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,108 cc | 1,995 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 17.0 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 146 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.5 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,830 lbs | 2,888 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,270 mm | 2,656 mm |
| Length | 4,280 mm | 4,497 mm |
| Units Produced | 117,000 | — |
| Original MSRP | $2,100 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1989 Renault 21 Turbo Quadra with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible offers lighter weight, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Renault has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1962 Renault Caravelle 1100S Convertible with the 1989 Renault 21 Turbo Quadra highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1989 Renault 21 Turbo Quadra holds a clear advantage in raw power with 175 hp compared to 55 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault Caravelle uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,108 cc, while the Renault 21 relies on a Inline-4 SOHC Turbo with 1,995 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Renault 21 Turbo Quadra edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 17.0 seconds. The Renault Caravelle carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1058 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.