2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 2 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (283 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (261 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 25 kg more than 2005 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (354 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2005 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2005 Nissan 350Z 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:
2005 Nissan 350Z | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Nissan | Nissan |
Model | 350Z | Maxima |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 283 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 354 Nm | 346 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2830 mm |