1996 Renault Megane vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 6 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.
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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (201 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
