2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 1998 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Speedster 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1998 Opel Speedster. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 610 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Opel Speedster 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 1998 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Speedster. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Speedster. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Speedster has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Speedster 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 | 1998 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Maxima | Speedster |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2340 mm |
