1981 BMW 520 vs. 1992 Renault 21
To start off, 1992 Renault 21 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1992 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1992 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1992 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Renault 21, 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, 1981 BMW 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1992 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 520 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
