1996 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 1999 Renault Megane is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1999 Renault Megane. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1999 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 M3 (320 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Renault Megane. (200 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Renault Megane. 1999 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
