2003 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Renault Clio

To start off, 2012 Renault Clio is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Renault Clio. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Renault Clio. (151 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Renault Clio. 2012 Renault Clio has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 318 2012 Renault Clio
Make BMW Renault
Model 318 Clio
Year Released 2003 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 113 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 151 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 80.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1215 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 2030 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1710 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L