1996 Renault Megane vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (94 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 90 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (176 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1869 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
