1996 Renault Safrane vs. 2004 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Safrane (141 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Safrane weights approximately 190 kg more than 2004 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Safrane, 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 Renault Safrane (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316. 2004 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Safrane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Safrane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Safrane | 2004 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | Safrane | 316 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 63 L |
