1996 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Renault Megane

To start off, 2002 Renault Megane is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Renault Megane. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 359 kg more than 2002 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Megane. (133 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Megane.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 318 2002 Renault Megane
Make BMW Renault
Model 318 Megane
Year Released 1996 2002
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 168 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 4750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1445 kg 1086 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4140 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L