1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (132 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 270 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Megane |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
