2008 BMW 318 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 20 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), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 290 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 BMW 318 (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
