2003 Renault Megane vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (79 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane.
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, 2003 Renault Megane (192 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Megane | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
