1981 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Renault Megane

To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Renault Megane. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Megane weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.

Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1981 BMW 520 (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Megane.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 520 2006 Renault Megane
Make BMW Renault
Model 520 Megane
Year Released 1981 2006
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 123 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 79.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 80.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1220 kg 1320 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L