2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2008 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Tacoma (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2008 Toyota Tacoma 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 2008 Toyota Tacoma. 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, 2008 Toyota Tacoma (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Maxima | 2008 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Maxima | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3240 mm |
