2008 BMW M3 vs. 1987 Renault 5
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 5 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1987 Renault 5. (118 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 797 kg more than 1987 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Renault 5, 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Renault 5. (165 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1987 Renault 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | 5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 7.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
