1983 BMW 316 vs. 1984 Renault 18
To start off, 1984 Renault 18 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Renault 18 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Renault 18 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Renault 18, 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, 1984 Renault 18 (164 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 1984 Renault 18 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 316 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
