2003 Renault Megane vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 158 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2003 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
