1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Renault Megane
To start off, 2012 Renault Megane is newer by 41 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, 2012 Renault Megane (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Renault Megane should accelerate faster 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, 2012 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, 2012 Renault Megane (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2630 mm |
