1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2007 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2007 Nissan Xterra is newer by 11 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 55 kg more than 2007 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2007 Nissan Xterra 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, 2007 Nissan Xterra 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, 2007 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 2007 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
