2009 GMC Sierra vs. 2003 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 GMC Sierra 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 6,199 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Sierra (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1079 kg more than 2003 Nissan Xterra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 GMC Sierra (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Xterra. 2009 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 GMC Sierra | 2003 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | GMC | Nissan |
| Model | Sierra | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6199 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 403 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 565 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2659 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5850 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2660 mm |
