1986 BMW 325 vs. 2001 Renault Avantime

To start off, 2001 Renault Avantime is newer by 15 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Avantime is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Avantime (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Avantime should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Avantime weights approximately 540 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. 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, 2001 Renault Avantime, 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, 2001 Renault Avantime (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Avantime will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325.

Compare all specifications:

1986 BMW 325 2001 Renault Avantime
Make BMW Renault
Model 325 Avantime
Year Released 1986 2001
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2693 cc 2946 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 126 HP 207 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 285 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.9:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.6 seconds 8.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1160 kg 1700 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4650 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1630 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 80 L