2008 BMW 550 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 495 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 550 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 550. 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2008 BMW 550 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 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 550 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
