1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 6 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (283 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 119 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.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (371 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Nissan Maxima | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Nissan | Nissan |
Model | Maxima | 350Z |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 371 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1464 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |