2009 BMW 118 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 21 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. Both 2009 BMW 118 and 1988 Renault 21 are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 21 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 BMW 118. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 118 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1988 Renault 21.
Because 2009 BMW 118 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 2009 BMW 118. 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, 2009 BMW 118 (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21. 2009 BMW 118 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. 2009 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 118 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 118 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
