2001 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 12 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 2,067 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (106 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 415 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 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 BMW 320 (330 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (159 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21. 2001 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 320 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2067 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
