1984 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 395 kg more than 1984 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 318 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 1984 BMW 318. 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
