1972 Opel Rekord vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 240 kg more than 1972 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Opel Rekord 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 1972 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Renault Megane (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Opel Rekord | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Rekord | Megane |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
