2005 Lexus SC vs. 1997 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Lexus SC 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 4,277 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus SC (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus SC weights approximately 397 kg more than 1997 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lexus SC 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 2005 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2005 Lexus SC (442 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Maxima. (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus SC | 1997 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | SC | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4277 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 442 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
