1996 Renault Megane vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 16 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 356 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 2012 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 2012 BMW M3. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Renault | BMW |
| Model | Megane | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1299 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
