2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1997 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 466 kg more than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Nissan Frontier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota 4Runner.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1997 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Frontier | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 2980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 21.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2316 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
