2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Renault Megane

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (96 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 1996 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Mercedes-Benz C 1996 Renault Megane
Make Mercedes-Benz Renault
Model C Megane
Year Released 2004 1996
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5439 cc 1868 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 361 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 510 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Top Speed 245 km/hour 174 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.2 seconds 12.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1635 kg 1350 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4140 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 60 L