2005 Nissan Maxima vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 178 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Lexus IS 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Maxima (346 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (247 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Maxima | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Nissan | Lexus |
| Model | Maxima | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
