Renault 4CV

vs

Renault 21

France vs France — 1947 vs 1989

Renault 4CV (1947)
Renault 21 (1989)
Specifications
4CV 1063 Racing21 Turbo Quadra
Horsepower21 hp175 hp
Torque30 lb-ft203 lb-ft
Engine Size747 cc1,995 cc
0-60 mph7.0 sec
Top Speed62 mph146 mph
¼ Mile15.2 sec
Weight1,235 lbs2,888 lbs
Wheelbase2,100 mm2,656 mm
Length3,600 mm4,497 mm
Units Produced1,105,543
Value (Excellent)$25,000$25,000
Collectibility6/106/10
Rarity4/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1947 Renault 4CV 1063 Racing brings lighter weight to the table, and the 1989 Renault 21 Turbo Quadra answers with more power, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Renault has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1947 Renault 4CV 1063 Racing 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 21 hp, a 154-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Renault 4CV uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 747 cc, while the Renault 21 relies on a Inline-4 SOHC Turbo with 1,995 cc. The 1989 Renault 21 Turbo Quadra claims a higher top speed at 146 mph compared to 62 mph. The Renault 4CV carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1653 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.