1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Renault Megane
To start off, 2007 Renault Megane is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Renault Megane (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2007 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Megane |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 126 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
