1996 Renault Megane vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 415 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 Passat (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
