2003 BMW 520 vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (91 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 564 kg more than 1988 Renault 19. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19, 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 520 | 19 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 38 L |
