1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 1998 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 355 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Maxima (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 1998 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Nissan | Suzuki |
| Model | Maxima | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2210 mm |
