1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1996 Renault Megane is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (106 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 225 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Renault Megane (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 1996 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin-Healey 100 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Renault |
| Model | 100 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 60 L |
