2009 Nissan Maxima vs. 2003 Pontiac Aztek
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Pontiac Aztek. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Pontiac Aztek would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Aztek. (176 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Aztek. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Aztek weights approximately 213 kg more than 2009 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2003 Pontiac Aztek is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Aztek will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Aztek. (298 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Aztek.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Maxima | 2003 Pontiac Aztek | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Maxima | Aztek |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 69 L |
