2001 Suzuki Vitara vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Vitara. (79 HP @ 5350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 616 kg more than 2001 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Suzuki Vitara | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Suzuki | Nissan |
| Model | Vitara | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5350 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2776 mm |
