1996 BMW 523 vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 9 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 89 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Megane. (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 523 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1195 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
