1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 8 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 3,948 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (270 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 784 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 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (395 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2005 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 395 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
