2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 7 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (334 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Nissan | Dodge |
| Model | Maxima | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
