1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2001 Renault Megane is newer by 32 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 1,783 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Megane (116 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Megane weights approximately 550 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, 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 (158 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elan | Megane |
Year Released | 1969 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1783 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2590 mm |