2002 Audi S3 vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 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 54 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 155 kg more than 2002 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | S3 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
