1979 Renault 5 vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2001 Renault Megane is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,461 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Renault 5 (159 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 Renault Megane. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Megane weights approximately 145 kg more than 1979 Renault 5.
Because 1979 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1979 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Megane. (128 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1979 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Renault 5 | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 5 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
