1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 7 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 504 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (175 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Focus | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |
