2003 Renault Megane vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1020 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Megane | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 2100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
