2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 10 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 65 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (187 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 250 kg more than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (252 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Maxima | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
