2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 379 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 656 kg more than 1996 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 532 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Renault Megane | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | Megane |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1299 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |