1971 Austin 3 vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (163 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 Renault Megane.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Megane (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
