2006 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Renault Clio
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Clio would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1996 Renault Clio. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 977 kg more than 1996 Renault Clio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Clio, 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Clio. (88 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1996 Renault Clio | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | Clio |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 75.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 64.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
