2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2004 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,505 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 54 kg more than 2004 Nissan Altima.
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, 2004 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 2004 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
