2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 92 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
