2004 Renault Megane vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 (163 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2004 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Renault Megane | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
