1956 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Renault Megane

To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1956 BMW 501 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 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (186 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.

Compare all specifications:

1956 BMW 501 2003 Renault Megane
Make BMW Renault
Model 501 Megane
Year Released 1956 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3166 cc 1397 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 222 Nm 186 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 76 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 80.5 mm
Top Speed 190 km/hour 171 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1405 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2570 mm