2003 Infiniti M vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Infiniti M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Infiniti M would be higher. At 4,494 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Infiniti M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Infiniti M (340 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Maxima. (290 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Infiniti M should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Infiniti M weights approximately 130 kg more than 2012 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Infiniti M 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 Infiniti M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Infiniti M (451 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Maxima. (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Infiniti M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Infiniti M | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Infiniti | Nissan |
| Model | M | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4494 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1747 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 76 L |
