1997 BMW 316 vs. 1994 Renault 21
To start off, 1997 BMW 316 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,719 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 316 (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1994 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1994 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 316 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1994 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Renault 21, 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 BMW 316 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 1994 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 316 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
