1986 Renault 21 vs. 2009 BMW 330
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 23 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 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 330 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 2009 BMW 330. 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, 2009 BMW 330 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21. 2009 BMW 330 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. 2009 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2009 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 21 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
