1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 12 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 209 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 2009 Nissan Xterra 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, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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, 2009 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 2009 Nissan Xterra 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. 2009 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Nissan Maxima 2009 Nissan Xterra
Make Nissan Nissan
Model Maxima Xterra
Year Released 1997 2009
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 3952 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 177 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1345 kg 1554 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2710 mm


 

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