2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1997 Renault Megane
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1997 Renault Megane. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Megane weights approximately 540 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Megane. (107 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Elise | 1997 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | Megane |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
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 | 750 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |