1996 Lexus ES vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 1997 Nissan Maxima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus ES weights approximately 185 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 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, 1996 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 1996 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus ES | 1997 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | ES | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
