2003 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Renault Clio

To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (88 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1998 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 320 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Clio. (131 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Clio.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 320 1998 Renault Clio
Make BMW Renault
Model 320 Clio
Year Released 2003 1998
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 142 HP 88 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 131 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 80.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 965 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 3780 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 50 L