2003 Lotus Elise vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Elise. (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 470 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Renault Megane (203 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Elise. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Elise | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | Megane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2480 mm |
