1997 Renault Megane vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Megane (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Renault Megane.
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, 1997 Renault Megane (196 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2008 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Renault Megane | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Megane | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
