2003 Renault Megane vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 320 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 (186 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
