2001 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Renault Clio

To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 4 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1997 Renault Clio. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 615 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 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, 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, 2001 BMW 320 (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Clio. (85 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Clio.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 320 1997 Renault Clio
Make BMW Renault
Model 320 Clio
Year Released 2001 1997
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1170 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 355 Nm 85 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 75.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 64.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 9.2:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1470 kg 855 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 38 L