2003 Renault Megane vs. 1971 Volvo 140
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (132 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 140. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 30 kg more than 1971 Volvo 140. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 140 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 1971 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1971 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Megane | 140 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
