2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (88 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 832 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Caterham 7 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 1996 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | 7 | Megane |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1647 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1332 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2680 mm |