1996 BMW 316 vs. 1981 Renault 14
To start off, 1996 BMW 316 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 316 (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 316 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1981 Renault 14. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 14, 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, 1996 BMW 316 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 316 | 1981 Renault 14 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 316 | 14 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 48 L |
