2008 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 5 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 185 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Megane. (188 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lexus | Renault |
| Model | IS | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
