1996 Renault Megane vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 5 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2012 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. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Megane | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
