1986 Renault 21 vs. 2010 BMW M3
To start off, 2010 BMW M3 is newer by 24 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (87 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW M3 weights approximately 750 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 2010 BMW M3 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 2010 BMW M3. 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, 2010 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Renault 21 | 2010 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 21 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2067 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2761 mm |
