1979 Talbot Horizon 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 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot Horizon would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Talbot Horizon. (58 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1979 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 375 kg more than 1979 Talbot Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (147 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Talbot Horizon. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Talbot Horizon. 2003 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1979 Talbot Horizon has manual transmission. 1979 Talbot Horizon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Talbot Horizon | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Talbot | Renault |
| Model | Horizon | Megane |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1118 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2530 mm |
