1986 Renault 21 vs. 2006 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21.
Because 2006 BMW 525 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 2006 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2006 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 2006 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1986 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1986 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2006 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 21 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
