1961 BMW 700 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1961 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 660 kg more than 1961 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 BMW 700 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 1961 BMW 700. 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, 2003 Renault Megane (147 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 700. (52 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 700 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 700 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2530 mm |
