1997 Lotus Elise vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lotus Elise (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 420 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Because 1997 Lotus Elise 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 1997 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Lotus Elise (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Lotus Elise | 2003 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | Megane |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 117 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 70 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |