2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Renault Megane
To start off, 2011 Renault Megane is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Renault Megane (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Renault Megane. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Renault Megane. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2011 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2011 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2011 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Explorer | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
