1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Renault Megane
To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 37 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Megane weights approximately 695 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, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Megane |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 188 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 | 700 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
