1973 BMW 2004 vs. 1961 Renault 4
To start off, 1973 BMW 2004 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 BMW 2004 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 2004 (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1961 Renault 4. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 2004 should accelerate faster than 1961 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 2004 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1961 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 2004 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 1973 BMW 2004. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Renault 4, 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, 1973 BMW 2004 (157 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Renault 4. (51 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 2004 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 2004 | 1961 Renault 4 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 2004 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
