2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (261 HP) has 187 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 255 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Iltis has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Maxima | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2110 mm |
