2009 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Renault 4
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 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 4 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 380 more horse power than 1988 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1988 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1988 Renault 4 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
