2009 BMW 135 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 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. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 135 weights approximately 165 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 2009 BMW 135 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 135. 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 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 135 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 135 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1300 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.6 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
