1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Renault Megane is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 479 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Megane (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2008 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Megane |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
