2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 210 kg more than 2009 Toyota Prius. 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima (335 Nm) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Maxima | Prius |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
