1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Renault Megane
To start off, 2002 Renault Megane is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2002 Renault Megane. (93 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Megane weights approximately 82 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
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, 1998 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Megane. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2002 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2002 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2002 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
