1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Buick Enclave
To start off, 2012 Buick Enclave is newer by 15 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Buick Enclave is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick Enclave (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick Enclave should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick Enclave weights approximately 823 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, 2012 Buick Enclave (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Buick Enclave will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima. 2012 Buick Enclave 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. 2012 Buick Enclave will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Buick Enclave | |
Make | Nissan | Buick |
Model | Maxima | Enclave |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 288 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2168 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5126 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2007 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1842 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3020 mm |