1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2001 Renault Megane is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Megane weights approximately 511 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Megane |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2480 mm |
