1997 Mitsubishi Magna vs. 2012 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2012 Nissan Frontier is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Frontier (152 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. (141 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 302 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan Frontier 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 2012 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 2012 Nissan Frontier (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. (205 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Magna | 2012 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Nissan |
| Model | Magna | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2349 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1672 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3200 mm |
