1996 BMW 523 vs. 1997 Renault Megane
To start off, 1997 Renault Megane is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 Renault Megane. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1997 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Megane. (196 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 1997 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 523 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
