There is a big difference between the 2 cars. A 2001 Nissan Maxima is more comparable to the 6th Generation 200HP Accord. The new 2003 Accord V6 is much faster than a 2001 Nissan Maxima V6. There is a difference in feel I have driven both.

2001 Nissan Maxima Auto V6 - 15.9 1/4 mile
2001 Nissan Maxima Manual V6 - 15.2 1/4 Mile

2003 Honda Accord V6 auto - 15.0 1/4 mile
2003 Honda Accord V6 Manual - 14.5 1/4 mile

The Accord is faster. Better Motor and Tranny goes to the new accord v6 vs the older Gen Maxima. Plus the auto tranny for the accord is a 5spd auto vs 4 spd auto. 6spd for the Accord and 5spd manual for the Maxima. Hope this helps!!