2008 Nissan Altima vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 5 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Altima weights approximately 125 kg more than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Altima 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:
2008 Nissan Altima | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Nissan | Nissan |
Model | Altima | Maxima |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2760 mm |