1978 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 300 kg more than 1978 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Silvia. (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Silvia | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Silvia | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2750 mm |
