2008 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 12 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), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 170 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 BMW 525 (251 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2008 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 525 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
