2008 Nissan Maxima vs. 1972 Plymouth Valiant

To start off, 2008 Nissan Maxima is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Plymouth Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Plymouth Valiant would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Plymouth Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Maxima (197 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 200 kg more than 1972 Plymouth Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Plymouth Valiant 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 1972 Plymouth Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1972 Plymouth Valiant (359 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Maxima. (271 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 Plymouth Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Maxima.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Nissan Maxima 1972 Plymouth Valiant
Make Nissan Plymouth
Model Maxima Valiant
Year Released 2008 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 5210 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 359 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 1600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1540 kg 1340 kg
Vehicle Length 4930 mm 4800 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2750 mm