2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2011 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2011 Dodge Ram is newer by 9 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (252 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2011 Dodge Ram is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Dodge Ram (551 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (334 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 2011 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Nissan | Dodge |
| Model | Maxima | Ram |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3569 mm |
