1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2002 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Grand Espace (174 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 500 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 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, 2002 Renault Grand Espace (351 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 2002 Renault Grand Espace has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Renault Grand Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2002 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Maxima | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
