2005 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1988 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2005 BMW 318 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
