1997 Nissan Laurel vs. 2001 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2001 Nissan Maxima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Laurel (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 25 kg more than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1997 Nissan Laurel 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 1997 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1997 Nissan Laurel (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Laurel | 2001 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Laurel | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
