2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 137 kg more than 2005 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fiesta | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 1345 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
