2008 BMW 325 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 401 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 325 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 325. 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 325 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2820 mm |
