2003 Lexus IS vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2001 Renault Megane. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 295 kg more than 2001 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, 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, 2001 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lexus | Renault |
| Model | IS | Megane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
