1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Renault Megane
To start off, 2002 Renault Megane is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 2002 Renault Megane. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 173 kg more than 2002 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Megane. (128 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2002 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 50 L |
