2008 Nissan Maxima vs. 1997 Dodge Intrepid
To start off, 2008 Nissan Maxima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Maxima (255 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 69 kg more than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. 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 Maxima (342 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Intrepid. (257 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Intrepid.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Maxima | 1997 Dodge Intrepid | |
| Make | Nissan | Dodge |
| Model | Maxima | Intrepid |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 3228 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1574 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 5123 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 68 L |
