2003 Nissan Xterra vs. 2009 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Vibe (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Xterra.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Pontiac Vibe (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Xterra. 2009 Pontiac Vibe 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. 2009 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Xterra | 2009 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Xterra | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 97.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2610 mm |
