This is another one of Fifth Gear’s on-track comparisons. Two cars head-to-head on a timed lap, and may the best car win. In this case it’s the Vauxhall Astra VXR up against the Renaultsport Megane 225 Cup.

Fifth Gear Vauxhall Astra VXR

Vauxhall Astra VXR takes on the Renaultsport Megane 225

The Astra uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine to produce 240bhp and costs £18,995*. It can do 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds and maxes out at 152mph.

The Megane also uses a 2.0-litre turbo engine but produces only 222bhp. While the top speed of 147mph is lower than the Astra, the Megane actually manages to beat it to 60mph with a time of 6.1 seconds. The Megane is also cheaper at £18,600*.

But which is better to drive? Let battle commence!

* If those prices seem cheap it’s because they’re from 2005. How things have changed!