2003 Chrysler 300 vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chrysler 300 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 61 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler 300. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 299 kg more than 2003 Chrysler 300. 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, 2003 Chrysler 300, 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler 300. (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler 300 | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | 300 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2734 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1879 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2700 mm |
