1995 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 64 kg more than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2009 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1995 Chevrolet Cavalier 2009 Nissan Xterra
Make Chevrolet Nissan
Model Cavalier Xterra
Year Released 1995 2009
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2392 cc 3954 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 150 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.8:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1265 kg 1329 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 80 L