2001 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 50 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 316 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5. 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (293 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Maxima. 2001 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | T5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2956 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 293 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 3010 mm |
