2003 Renault Megane vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 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 1996 Volvo 960. 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 (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Megane | 960 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2780 mm |
