Renault 21 Turbo (1988-92)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Renault 21 had its share of common faults, as with many cars of its era. Some of the most frequently reported issues included:

- **Electrical Problems** – Owners often experienced faults with the **dashboard instruments, wiring, and central locking system**.
- **Gearbox Issues** – Some models, particularly the Turbo, had **transmission problems**, including difficulty shifting gears.
- **Rust** – Like many cars from the 1980s and early 1990s, the Renault 21 was **prone to rust**, especially around the wheel arches and underbody.
- **Cooling System Failures** – Problems with the **radiator and cooling system** could lead to overheating.
- **Suspension Wear** – The **bushings and shock absorbers** were known to wear out relatively quickly, affecting ride quality.

If you're considering a Renault 21, checking for these issues would be a good idea!
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Renault 21** was produced between **1986 and 1994** and went through several updates. Here’s a breakdown of its **generations and trim levels**:

### **Generations**
1. **First Generation (1986-1989)** – The original Renault 21 was launched as a **mid-size family car**, available in **saloon, liftback, and estate (Nevada/Savanna)** versions.
2. **Facelift (1989-1994)** – Renault updated the design with **smoother edges, wider headlights, and a revised dashboard**. The **Turbo version** received a sportier front bumper with fog lights.

### **Trim Levels**
- **Base Models** – Included **1.4L, 1.7L, and 2.0L petrol engines**, offering practical family transport.
- **Turbo** – Featured a **2.0L turbocharged engine** with **162 hp**, making it a performance-oriented version.
- **Quadra** – Introduced **four-wheel drive**, improving handling and traction.
- **Diesel Variants** – Offered **1.9L and 2.1L diesel engines**, catering to economy-focused buyers.
- **Nevada/Savanna (Estate)** – A **station wagon** version, available with multiple engine choices, including **seven-seat configurations**.

The Renault 21 was known for its **varied engine layouts**, with some models using **transverse-mounted engines** while others had **longitudinal setups**. This made it unique among mid-size cars of its era.
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Engine/Performance
The **Renault 21 Turbo** was equipped with a **2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine** (engine code **J7R 752**). It produced **173 horsepower (175 PS) at 5,200 rpm** and **270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque at 3,000 rpm**. The engine featured a **Garrett T3 turbocharger** with an intercooler and had a **compression ratio of 8.0:1**.

It was paired with a **5-speed manual transmission** and had a **front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout**. This setup allowed the Renault 21 Turbo to achieve a **top speed of 141 mph (227 km/h)** and a **0-60 mph time of around 6.9 seconds**.
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Rivals
The **Renault 21 Turbo** had some strong rivals in the late 1980s, particularly among European performance sedans. Here’s how some of its competitors stacked up:

- **Peugeot 405 Mi-16** – Offered a **top speed of 133 mph** and **0-60 mph in 8.8 seconds**.
- **Ford Sierra RS Cosworth** – A legendary turbocharged sedan with **204 hp**, capable of **0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds**.
- **BMW 325i (E30)** – A naturally aspirated **2.5L inline-6**, producing **168 hp**, with **0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds**.
- **Audi 90 Quattro 20V** – Featured **170 hp** and **four-wheel drive**, achieving **0-60 mph in roughly 7.8 seconds**.

The Renault 21 Turbo was competitive, with a **top speed of 139 mph** and **0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds**. It was a true sleeper sedan, offering impressive performance while maintaining practicality.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Renault 21** was designed by **Giorgetto Giugiaro** at **Italdesign**, a renowned Italian design house known for shaping many iconic cars.

### **Dimensions**
- **Wheelbase**:
- **Saloon** – 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
- **Estate (Nevada/Savanna)** – 2,750 mm (108.3 in)
- **Length**:
- **Saloon** – 4,462 mm (175.7 in)
- **Estate** – 4,644 mm (182.8 in)
- **Width**: **1,715 mm (67.5 in)**
- **Height**:
- **Saloon** – 1,415 mm (55.7 in)
- **Estate** – 1,421 mm (55.9 in)
- **Curb Weight**: **1,190 kg (2,624 lb)**

Giugiaro’s design gave the Renault 21 a distinctive, aerodynamic look while maintaining practicality.
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Spares/Specialists NI
You can find **Renault parts and accessories** in the UK and Ireland through **SERE Motors**, which serves customers across **Northern Ireland, the UK, and the Republic of Ireland**. They offer **genuine manufacturer parts, accessories, and reliable replacements**.

For **garage services**, SERE Motors also provides **Renault aftersales services** at their **Belfast and Lisburn garages**. They offer **vehicle servicing, MOTs, and repairs**, ensuring that Renaults—including classics like the **Renault 21 Turbo**—are properly maintained.
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Racing
The **Renault 21 Turbo** did have a presence in motorsport, particularly in **Group N and Group A racing**. It was **homologated by the FIA** for competition, meaning it met the requirements to race in certain categories.

While it wasn’t as famous as some of Renault’s other racing models, the **Turbo and Quadra versions** were used in **touring car and rally events**, benefiting from Renault’s expertise in turbocharged engines. The **Quadra’s four-wheel-drive system** made it particularly suited for rallying.
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Valuation
The value of a **Renault 21 Turbo** in the UK in 2025 varies depending on condition, mileage, and rarity. While exact figures aren't readily available, classic car listings suggest that well-maintained examples can fetch anywhere from **£5,000 to £12,000**, with pristine or low-mileage models potentially commanding higher prices.

If you're looking to buy or sell one, checking **classic car auctions, enthusiast forums, and valuation guides** would be a great way to get a more precise estimate.
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Clubs
There are **Renault enthusiast communities** in Northern Ireland, and while there may not be a dedicated **Renault 21 Turbo owners club**, you can find Renault-focused groups that welcome classic Renault owners.

One option is the **Turbo Renault Owners Club**, which has an [online forum](https://turborenault.co.uk/categories/renault-21-turbo-owners-club-forum-archive.158/) where Renault 21 Turbo enthusiasts discuss maintenance, events, and parts. You might also find local Renault clubs through **Charles Hurst Renault Belfast** or **Renault Newtownards**, which are established Renault dealerships in Northern Ireland.
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