1988 Nissan Micra vs. 2009 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 664 kg more than 1988 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Pontiac Torrent is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Nissan Micra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Torrent 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, 2009 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Micra. 2009 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 1988 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 1988 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan Micra | 2009 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Micra | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 665 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
