2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2010 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2010 Nissan Xterra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 693 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2010 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 2010 Nissan Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2010 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Chevrolet Cavalier 2010 Nissan Xterra
Make Chevrolet Nissan
Model Cavalier Xterra
Year Released 2005 2010
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2190 cc 4000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1191 kg 1884 kg
Vehicle Length 4600 mm 4539 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1849 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1902 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 80 L