2008 Renault Megane vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Renault Megane is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 213 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2008 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Renault Megane | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
