1978 Opel Rekord vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Megane (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 146 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Rekord | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1104 kg | 1250 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
