1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (177 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Renault Clio.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Renault Clio (191 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
