1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Renault Megane
To start off, 2012 Renault Megane is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Renault Megane (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Renault Megane (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
