1990 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Renault Clio

To start off, 2004 Renault Clio is newer by 14 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Renault Clio. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2004 Renault Clio. 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, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Clio (191 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 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 2004 Renault Clio
Make BMW Renault
Model 316 Clio
Year Released 1990 2004
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Size 1596 cc 1459 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 191 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
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 1035 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3780 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 48 L