2003 Renault Espace vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Espace 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), 2003 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Espace (137 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Espace weights approximately 591 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.
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, 2003 Renault Espace (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Espace 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 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 2003 Renault Espace 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 Renault Espace | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | Espace | Megane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1761 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.8 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
