2008 Nissan Xterra vs. 1997 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 164 kg more than 1997 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2008 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra. 2008 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Sentra has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Sentra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Xterra | 1997 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Xterra | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
