1986 BMW 325 vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 1989 Renault 21 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 74 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1986 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 325 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 92 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2550 mm |
