2003 Kia Shuma vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2003 Kia Shuma 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 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 152 more horse power than 2003 Kia Shuma. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Shuma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 448 kg more than 2003 Kia Shuma. 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 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Shuma. (144 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Shuma. 2002 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2003 Kia Shuma has manual transmission. 2003 Kia Shuma 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:
| 2003 Kia Shuma | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Shuma | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
