1988 Renault 21 vs. 2012 BMW 116
To start off, 2012 BMW 116 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 116 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 116 (116 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 116 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 116 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 116. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 116 (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Renault 21 | 2012 BMW 116 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 21 | 116 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2690 mm |
