2002 Buick Cielo vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Buick Cielo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Buick Cielo would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Buick Cielo. (241 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2002 Buick Cielo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 360 kg more than 2002 Buick Cielo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 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 2012 Nissan Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Buick Cielo, 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, 2002 Buick Cielo (387 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Xterra. (381 Nm). This means 2002 Buick Cielo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Xterra.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Buick Cielo 2012 Nissan Xterra
Make Buick Nissan
Model Cielo Xterra
Year Released 2002 2012
Body Type Convertible SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3800 cc 4000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 241 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 387 Nm 381 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1520 kg 1880 kg
Wheelbase Size 2920 mm 2700 mm