1990 BMW 316 vs. 2003 Renault Clio

To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 13 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Clio weights approximately 25 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, 2003 Renault Clio, 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, 2003 Renault Clio (191 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2003 Renault Clio
Make BMW Renault
Model 316 Clio
Year Released 1990 2003
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 177 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 191 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 5250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 11.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3820 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2490 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 50 L