2004 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 645 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 CL 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 CL. 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 CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | CL | Megane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 99 L | 60 L |
