1986 Vixen Motor Company 21 TD 21.0L

Overview

The Vixen 21 TD represents a unique chapter in American recreational vehicle history. Developed by Bill Collins, a former Pontiac engineer who contributed to the design of the DeLorean DMC-12, the Vixen was engineered to offer the comfort of a motorhome with the driving dynamics and fuel efficiency of a passenger car. Unlike the bulky, high-profile RVs common in the 1980s, the Vixen utilized a low-profile, aerodynamic fiberglass body that allowed it to fit into standard residential garages.

The 21 TD model is defined by its reliance on a BMW-sourced inline-six turbodiesel engine. This powertrain choice prioritized long-range cruising and fuel economy over raw acceleration. The vehicle features a fully independent suspension and a rear-wheel-drive layout, which provides handling characteristics far superior to traditional truck-based motorhomes of the era. Its construction utilizes a lightweight, bonded fiberglass shell, reflecting an engineering focus on weight reduction and structural integrity.

Marketed to a niche demographic of enthusiasts who valued travel efficiency and ease of parking, the Vixen 21 TD remains a sought-after collector vehicle. While production numbers were limited, the vehicle maintains a dedicated following due to its unconventional design and the technical pedigree of its development team. Today, it is recognized as a distinct alternative to the conventional RV, serving as a functional piece of automotive design history.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Vixen Motor Company
Model	21 TD
Model Year	1986
Generation	1st
Trim	TD
Body Style	Motorhome
Vehicle Segment	Recreational Vehicle
Vehicle Class	Special Purpose Vehicle 2WD
Market	USA
Platform	Vixen Custom Chassis
Assembly Plant	Pontiac, Michigan
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	1986
Production End	1989
VIN Identifier	–
Base MSRP	$39,950
Destination Charge	–
Total MSRP	$39,950
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	BMW M21
Engine Name	M21 Turbo Diesel
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-6
Displacement	2.4L (2,443 cc)
Bore x Stroke	80 mm x 81 mm
Compression Ratio	22.0:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Mechanical Fuel Injection
Valve Train	SOHC
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	–
Oil Specification / Viscosity	–
Horsepower	115 hp
Torque	160 lb-ft
Redline	–
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Diesel
Recommended Octane	–
EPA City MPG	15
EPA Highway MPG	16
EPA Combined MPG	–
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	–
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	20
Estimated Driving Range	–
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	–
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	–
Top Speed	100 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	–
Lateral Acceleration	–
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	250
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	82
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	76
Wheelbase (in)	134
Front Track (in)	–
Rear Track (in)	–
Ground Clearance (in)	–
Curb Weight (lbs)	5,200
GVWR (lbs)	–
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	–
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	–
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	–
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	–
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	–
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	–
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	–
Android Auto	–
Navigation System	–
Audio System	–
Speaker Count	–
Wireless Charging	–
Wi-Fi Hotspot	–
OTA Updates	–
Digital Key	–
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	–
Powertrain Warranty	–
Corrosion Warranty	–
Roadside Assistance	–
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	–
Transmission Supplier	ZF
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	–
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	–
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	~587
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The Vixen 21 TD is highly regarded in the vintage RV community for its unique engineering and garageable dimensions, though ownership requires a commitment to sourcing specific parts for the BMW-derived powertrain. Prospective buyers should prioritize inspecting the fiberglass body for stress cracks and verifying the condition of the turbocharger and cooling system, as the M21 engine is sensitive to overheating. While the manual transmission offers a engaging driving experience, clutch wear and linkage maintenance are common points of concern. In the current market, these vehicles command a premium among collectors who appreciate their design ingenuity, though they are best suited for owners comfortable with specialized mechanical upkeep rather than those seeking a turn-key modern camper.