1996 BMW 332 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 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 2002 Renault Megane. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 215 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 332 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 332. 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 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Megane. 2002 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2002 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 332 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
