2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 1 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 739 kg more than 2002 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | SSR | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2760 mm |
