1957 Lotus Seven vs. 2003 Renault Megane

To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 680 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1957 Lotus Seven 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 1957 Lotus Seven. 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, 2003 Renault Megane (188 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven. 2003 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1957 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1957 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1957 Lotus Seven 2003 Renault Megane
Make Lotus Renault
Model Seven Megane
Year Released 1957 2003
Body Type Roadster Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1558 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 126 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 188 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 9.8:1
Top Speed 161 km/hour 200 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 750 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 3370 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1560 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 950 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2190 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 29 L 60 L