Toyota Prius LE AWD-e vs Nissan Maxima Platinum FWD

Under the hood, the Nissan Maxima Platinum FWD's robust 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque. This starkly contrasts with the Toyota Prius LE AWD-e, whose 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, combined with its two electric motors, produces a total of 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. In terms of vehicle weight, the Maxima Platinum FWD has a curb weight of 3,730 pounds, while the Prius LE AWD-e is lighter at 3,210 pounds. These figures provide a glimpse into the performance differences, reflecting the Maxima's focus on power and the Prius's commitment to efficiency.

The Nissan Maxima Platinum FWD features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that works with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and employs a Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) system. This configuration gives it an estimated 0-60mph acceleration time of 5.7 seconds. In contrast, the Toyota Prius LE AWD-e utilizes a different setup with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. This hybrid powertrain is also matched with a Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT) but includes All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Interestingly, despite the Prius's emphasis on efficiency, it achieves a 0-60mph time of 5 seconds, making it surprisingly quick off the line for a hybrid.

The Nissan Maxima Platinum FWD stretches to 192.8 inches in length and rides on a wheelbase of 109.3 inches. Its width measures 73.2 inches, and it stands 56.5 inches tall. Comparatively, the Toyota Prius LE AWD-e is more compact, measuring 180 inches in length with a wheelbase of 106.3 inches. It is narrower at 69.3 inches wide and taller with a height of 58.1 inches. These dimensions constitute their distinct character on the road, with the Maxima presenting as a longer, wider presence while the Prius maintains a more compact profile.