2004 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 18 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 505 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 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 2004 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
