1998 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 310 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 323 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 323. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 323 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 70 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
