2001 BMW M vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (325 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 240 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M 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 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 M (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M | 21 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
