1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Micra is newer by 12 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 57 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 296 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. 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, 2008 Nissan Micra (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Micra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 2008 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Micra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1049 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
