1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2003 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 7 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Pathfinder (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 605 kg more than 1996 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Nissan Pathfinder (360 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 2003 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
