1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2005 Nissan Hardbody
To start off, 2005 Nissan Hardbody is newer by 9 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 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Hardbody is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Hardbody should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Hardbody weights approximately 13 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.
Because 2005 Nissan Hardbody 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 2005 Nissan Hardbody. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (208 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Hardbody will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 2005 Nissan Hardbody | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Hardbody |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1358 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2960 mm |
