1999 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 1999 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 320 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 320 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 320 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 1999 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1999 BMW 320 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 320 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 320 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
