1997 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 1 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 130 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 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 1996 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | M3 | Megane |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 148 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |