1998 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 1998 Audi A4 is newer by 1 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 38 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 160 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 1997 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A4 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
