1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2002 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2002 Toyota Corolla 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 225 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. 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, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Corolla. 2002 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2002 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Maxima | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
