2003 Lexus IS vs. 2007 Renault Megane

To start off, 2007 Renault Megane is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS 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 55 more horse power than 2007 Renault Megane. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2007 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 180 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Renault Megane.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Lexus IS 2007 Renault Megane
Make Lexus Renault
Model IS Megane
Year Released 2003 2007
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1988 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 153 HP 98 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 196 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 75 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 70 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 1220 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L