2002 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,869 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (134 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 1164 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, 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, 2005 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Elise. (175 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | Megane |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 10.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1920 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 60 L |
