2002 Renault Megane vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2002 Renault Megane is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Megane (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Megane weights approximately 355 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2002 Renault Megane (128 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Renault Megane | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
