2003 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 14 kg more than 1996 Renault Megane.
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, 1996 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | Megane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
