2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 8 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 280 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 2004 Alpina B3 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 2004 Alpina B3. 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, 2004 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Alpina | Renault |
| Model | B3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
