2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (282 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Nissan Maxima | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Maxima | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 282 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |