1978 Ford Capri vs. 2003 Renault Megane

To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (132 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (97 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 258 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. 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 (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Ford Capri 2003 Renault Megane
Make Ford Renault
Model Capri Megane
Year Released 1978 2003
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 97 HP 132 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 151 Nm 191 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 82.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.1 mm 93 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1032 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2750 mm