1988 Nissan Prairie vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix

To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Prairie.

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, 2011 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Prairie. 2011 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 1988 Nissan Prairie has manual transmission. 1988 Nissan Prairie will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Nissan Prairie 2011 Toyota Matrix
Make Nissan Toyota
Model Prairie Matrix
Year Released 1988 2011
Engine Size 1487 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 79 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 121 Nm 219 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1765 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1549 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2601 mm