1997 BMW 316 vs. 1987 Renault 21
To start off, 1997 BMW 316 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Renault 21 (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 316 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1987 Renault 21.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Renault 21 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1987 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 316 | 1987 Renault 21 | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 316 | 21 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |