2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 82 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 104 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Maxima | Passat |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 335 Nm | 240 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1436 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |