2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 2006 Renault Megane

To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2006 Renault Megane. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 235 kg more than 2006 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Megane. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2006 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2006 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Nissan Maxima 2006 Renault Megane
Make Nissan Renault
Model Maxima Megane
Year Released 2003 2006
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3496 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 261 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 346 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1555 kg 1320 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2630 mm