7th Sep 2004, 18:43

Hi again! In Portugal parts for this car are very expensive (way too much). Until now I've made 8.000 km (5.000 miles) and no problem at all, only a small consumption of engine oil, but since the engine is not new, let it be. You might call me nuts, but to put this car (almost) as new, I've spent around 7.500 euros (£ 5.100). I know it's a little bit, but I love this car since my childhood. How to make it work well? Always check every little thing once a week. One problem of this car is the overheating. In summer remove the thermostat, in winter put it back again with 3 or 4 holes in it. The radiator is too small due to the two intercoolers. Have fun :-)

9th Oct 2004, 18:03

There's nothing else you should do. The car is worth a lot in an original condition. Maybe when you need to replace the clutch, you should replace by a reinforced one. The car is very reliable as long as you give it a good service. When you start the engine and it's cold wait 2 or 3 minutes for warm up. When you drive a little faster, before turning it off, wait 1 or 2 minutes. These procedures will keep the turbo in good health. Once every 20.000 km (~12.500 miles) take out the intercoolers and clean them with petrol. Here in Portugal, the value of these cars increased 2.500 in a couple of years. Within 10 years it will be double or triple...

1st Dec 2005, 16:42

I also own a red 21 turbo. The engine itself was rebuilt in 2003 (only the block is original) and it keeps amazing me even knowing it's almost 16 years old. Yes, I've spent a lot of money, but it's a pleasure to slingshot past a few Cupras!!!

All the best to all!

13th Jan 2006, 08:02

Renault 21 Turbo's. I've had two and it was a love hate relationship both times.

I had exactly the same problems with both. Dodgy hoses, constant overheating, head gaskets going every 12K, turbo's blown, ventilation system failing, ABS sensor target rusting away, and a blown engine on each.

Yet I loved them both. Astonishingly quick in the mid range, comfortable and reasonable handling. I ended up running both to 150K miles before I sold them on. You'll love them, but be prepared to be always shelling out on repairs.