2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 660 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (201 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | Megane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 11.5 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 | 1875 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
