2007 Renault Megane vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2007 Renault Megane is newer by 26 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), 2007 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Megane weights approximately 405 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, 2007 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Renault Megane | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Santana |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | 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 | 221 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
