2003 Renault Megane vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Renault Megane would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 600 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2011 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2003 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Renault | Lexus |
| Model | Megane | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1460 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
