1981 Austin Marina vs. 2008 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Renault Megane is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 445 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Austin Marina 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 1981 Austin Marina. 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 (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 2008 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | Marina | Megane |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |
