2004 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 580 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 BMW 525 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 BMW 525. 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 BMW 525 (390 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 1996 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 525 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 5.6 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
