1988 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Renault Scenic

To start off, 1999 Renault Scenic is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1999 Renault Scenic. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Scenic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1999 Renault Scenic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Renault Scenic is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Renault Scenic will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Renault Scenic (260 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Scenic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1999 Renault Scenic has manual transmission. 1999 Renault Scenic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 520 1999 Renault Scenic
Make BMW Renault
Model 520 Scenic
Year Released 1988 1999
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1870 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 129 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 260 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 93 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 19.0:1
Top Speed 202 km/hour 160 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.5 seconds 14.8 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1485 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L