2008 Lotus Elise vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Renault Megane would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 300 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | Megane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1250 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
