2003 Renault Megane vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 4,920 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1290 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Renault Megane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 623 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1460 cc | 4920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
