1989 Dodge Daytona vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Daytona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Daytona would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Daytona. (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Daytona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 505 kg more than 1989 Dodge Daytona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Nissan Xterra 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 2012 Nissan Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Daytona, 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, 2012 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Daytona. (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Daytona.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Dodge Daytona 2012 Nissan Xterra
Make Dodge Nissan
Model Daytona Xterra
Year Released 1989 2012
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2972 cc 4000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 141 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 232 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1374 kg 1879 kg
Vehicle Length 4560 mm 4539 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1849 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1902 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2700 mm


 

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