2008 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 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 97 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (147 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane. 2003 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 525 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| 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 | 215 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2530 mm |
