1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Renault Megane
To start off, 1997 Renault Megane is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Megane (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Megane weights approximately 331 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Renault Megane (196 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1997 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elan | Megane |
Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 196 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |