1998 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 246 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 2003 Nissan Maxima (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Focus | Maxima |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1169 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |