2003 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (106 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lexus | Renault |
| Model | IS | Megane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
