2001 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Nissan Maxima (222 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 142 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima. 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, 2001 Nissan Maxima (293 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm). This means 2001 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Altima. 2001 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Altima |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2956 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 293 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2675 mm |
