1981 BMW 725 vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 1981 BMW 725 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4.
Because 1981 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1981 BMW 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 725 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
