2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 2001 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Vectra 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 119 more horse power than 2001 Opel Vectra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 240 kg more than 2001 Opel Vectra. 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, 2003 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Vectra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Vectra. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Vectra 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 | 2001 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Maxima | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
