2001 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Renault Safrane
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Safrane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Safrane would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1998 Renault Safrane. (141 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Safrane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1998 Renault Safrane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Renault Safrane, 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Safrane. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Safrane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1998 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | Safrane |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 38 L |
