1996 Renault Megane vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 10 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 841 kg more than 1996 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Renault Megane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
