1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2001 Renault Megane is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus 340 R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus 340 R would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus 340 R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus 340 R (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2001 Renault Megane. (116 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus 340 R should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Megane weights approximately 575 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 1998 Lotus 340 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1998 Lotus 340 R (198 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Megane. (158 Nm). This means 1998 Lotus 340 R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | 340 R | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2590 mm |
