1986 Subaru XT vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier

To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 3,953 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT.

Because 2011 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Subaru XT. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 2011 Nissan Frontier has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Subaru XT 2011 Nissan Frontier
Make Subaru Nissan
Model XT Frontier
Year Released 1986 2011
Body Type Coupe Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2672 cc 3953 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 147 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 211 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.8:1
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4460 mm 5230 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1780 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 3200 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 80 L