1980 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Renault Megane

To start off, 2008 Renault Megane is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (162 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 62 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Megane (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Ford Escort 2008 Renault Megane
Make Ford Renault
Model Escort Megane
Year Released 1980 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1098 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 43 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 71 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 82.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 53.3 mm 93 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 144 km/hour 220 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 903 kg 965 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4230 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 60 L