1974 Lotus Eclat vs. 2009 Renault Megane
To start off, 2009 Renault Megane is newer by 35 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Renault Megane (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Renault Megane should accelerate faster 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, 2009 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, 2009 Renault Megane (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Eclat. (190 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Eclat | Megane |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
