1992 Ford Tempo vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (129 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 1121 kg more than 1992 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Nissan Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Tempo, 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, 2009 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Tempo. (204 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Tempo | 2009 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Tempo | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |
