1990 BMW 316 vs. 1994 Renault Espace

To start off, 1994 Renault Espace is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Renault Espace (104 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Renault Espace weights approximately 370 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Renault Espace, 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, 1994 Renault Espace (159 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1994 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 1994 Renault Espace
Make BMW Renault
Model 316 Espace
Year Released 1990 1994
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 159 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 77 L