1979 Ford Taunus vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Taunus 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) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 270 kg more than 1979 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Taunus 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 1979 Ford Taunus. 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Taunus | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Taunus | Megane |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1293 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 132 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
