2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 190 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 2003 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
