1998 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 2 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 180 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 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1996 Renault Megane (201 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 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. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
