2009 Lexus IS vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 110 kg more than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Nissan Maxima (335 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lexus IS. (251 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | IS | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
