1996 BMW 740 vs. 2003 Renault Megane

To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 740 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 740 weights approximately 555 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 BMW 740 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 740. 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, 1996 BMW 740 (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 740 2003 Renault Megane
Make BMW Renault
Model 740 Megane
Year Released 1996 2003
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 282 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 11.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1945 kg 1390 kg
Vehicle Length 5130 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 3080 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 85 L 70 L