1996 Renault Megane vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 213 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. 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 (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2004 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Megane | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1299 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
