1971 BMW 3 vs. 1976 Renault 14
To start off, 1976 Renault 14 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1976 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1976 Renault 14. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Renault 14, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1976 Renault 14 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 3 | 14 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2540 mm |
