1983 Nissan Prairie vs. 2009 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Versa (107 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Versa weights approximately 467 kg more than 1983 Nissan Prairie. 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, 2009 Nissan Versa (151 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Prairie. (122 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Nissan Prairie | 2009 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Prairie | Versa |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
