1996 Renault Megane vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 440 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Megane | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
