2003 Renault Megane vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 78 kg more than 2003 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
