1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (163 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 825 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Megane (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1964 Lotus Elan | 2004 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elan | Megane |
Year Released | 1964 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
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 | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 138 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |