1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2003 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2003 Nissan Xterra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (193 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 820 kg more than 2003 Nissan Xterra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Xterra. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Chevrolet Express 2003 Nissan Xterra
Make Chevrolet Nissan
Model Express Xterra
Year Released 1997 2003
Body Type Van SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6505 cc 2393 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 193 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 583 Nm 209 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 2400 kg 1580 kg
Vehicle Length 5560 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 2030 mm 1890 mm
Wheelbase Size 3440 mm 2660 mm