2004 Renault Megane vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (133 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 400 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Renault Megane (185 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Renault Megane | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Santana |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 60 L |
