2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 2001 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 295 kg more than 2001 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Maxima. 2001 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2006 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2006 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 2001 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | 350Z | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1995 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2760 mm |
