1996 Renault Megane vs. 2008 Alpina B3
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (94 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1996 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alpina B3 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 2008 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 Alpina B3 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (176 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2008 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2008 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Renault | Alpina |
| Model | Megane | B3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1869 cc | 3346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 264 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
