1971 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 45 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. 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 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2530 mm |
