1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 vs. 2002 Renault Megane
To start off, 2002 Renault Megane is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2002 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 338 kg more than 2002 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | 2002 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 350 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2630 mm |
