1971 Austin 3 vs. 2011 Renault Megane
To start off, 2011 Renault Megane is newer by 40 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, 2011 Renault Megane (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Renault Megane (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| 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 | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
