2008 BMW X3 vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Renault Megane would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2001 Renault Megane. (116 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 568 kg more than 2001 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Megane. (158 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Megane. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2001 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | X3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2590 mm |
