1989 Renault 21 vs. 2012 BMW 335
To start off, 2012 BMW 335 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 335 (320 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (91 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 335 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 335 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 335. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 335 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Renault 21 | 2012 BMW 335 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | 21 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1372 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2810 mm |
