1988 Ford Falcon vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1988 Ford Falcon. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Falcon weights approximately 244 kg more than 2008 Nissan Xterra.

Because 1988 Ford Falcon is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Falcon. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Falcon.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Ford Falcon 2008 Nissan Xterra
Make Ford Nissan
Model Falcon Xterra
Year Released 1988 2008
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3273 cc 3952 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 120 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 2300 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1374 kg 1130 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2710 mm