1979 Renault 4 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 4 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1979 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 1190 kg more than 1979 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 4 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 955 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2761 mm |
