1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 165 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 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 1998 BMW Z3. 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 Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
