1996 TVR Chimaera vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 295 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 1996 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (147 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane. 2003 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1996 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 1996 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 TVR Chimaera | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | TVR | Renault |
| Model | Chimaera | Megane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3946 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2530 mm |
