2009 Renault Megane vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Renault Megane is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima.
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, 2009 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima. 2003 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 2009 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2009 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Renault Megane | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Renault | Nissan |
| Model | Megane | Altima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 73 L |
