1981 Ford Taunus vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 1999 Renault Megane is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,869 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (98 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 160 kg more than 1981 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Taunus | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Taunus | Megane |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 98 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
