1996 Renault Megane vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (106 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 55 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1996 Renault Megane (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
