2011 Nissan Maxima vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 402 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Nissan Maxima | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | Maxima | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 57 L |
