2009 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 339 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. 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 M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.9 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
