2002 Lexus IS vs. 2005 Renault Megane

To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 230 kg more than 2002 Lexus IS.

Because 2002 Lexus IS 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Megane. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Megane. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2005 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2005 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Lexus IS 2005 Renault Megane
Make Lexus Renault
Model IS Megane
Year Released 2002 2005
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2999 cc 1869 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 201 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 296 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 93 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 18.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1540 kg 1770 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4270 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 60 L