1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2004 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2004 Nissan Xterra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,278 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Xterra (180 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 517 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Nissan Xterra (274 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (211 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2004 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | Cavalier | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3278 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 274 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 73 L |
