1997 Cadillac Catera vs. 1984 Nissan Prairie
To start off, 1997 Cadillac Catera is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Cadillac Catera (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1984 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 1984 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 730 kg more than 1984 Nissan Prairie. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Cadillac Catera 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 1997 Cadillac Catera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Nissan Prairie, 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, 1997 Cadillac Catera (260 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Cadillac Catera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Nissan Prairie. 1997 Cadillac Catera has automatic transmission and 1984 Nissan Prairie has manual transmission. 1984 Nissan Prairie will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Cadillac Catera | 1984 Nissan Prairie | |
Make | Cadillac | Nissan |
Model | Catera | Prairie |
Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1487 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 975 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |