2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Renault Megane would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 2001 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 835 kg more than 2001 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 703 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Megane. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2001 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
