2006 Renault Megane vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Megane (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Megane weights approximately 840 kg more than 1996 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, 2006 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (92 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Renault Megane | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
