1998 BMW 317 vs. 1997 Renault Clio
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 317 (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Renault Clio. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 317 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1997 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Clio. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1997 Renault Clio | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 317 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2550 mm |
