2005 Renault Megane vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Megane (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 841 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2005 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Renault Megane | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1460 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1761 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |
