2012 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Renault Megane would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1999 Renault Megane. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 806 kg more than 1999 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (390 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Renault Megane. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Pathfinder | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Pathfinder | Megane |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2121 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4884 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1849 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1834 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
