2003 Renault Megane vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle 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 41 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
