1987 Renault 21 vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1987 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1987 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 328 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1987 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 328 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 2012 BMW 328. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2012 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Renault 21 | 2012 BMW 328 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 21 | 328 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1869 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2810 mm |
