2008 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 4, 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 X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | X3 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
