2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 415 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 453 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (147 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | CLS | Megane |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 402 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1882 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1417 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2530 mm |
