2003 Renault Megane vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (104 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 170 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Megane (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1460 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
