1990 BMW 316 vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace is newer by 7 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 2,963 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Espace (166 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 570 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, 1997 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, 1997 Renault Espace (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 1997 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 316 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
