1974 Lotus Eclat vs. 2006 Renault Megane
To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Eclat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Eclat (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Eclat should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Megane weights approximately 284 kg more than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Because 1974 Lotus Eclat 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 1974 Lotus Eclat. 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 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Eclat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Eclat | 2006 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Eclat | Megane |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1106 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
