2009 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 1999 Chevrolet Prizm

To start off, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 350 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2009 Nissan Pathfinder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder (391 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Prizm.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Nissan Pathfinder 1999 Chevrolet Prizm
Make Nissan Chevrolet
Model Pathfinder Prizm
Year Released 2009 1999
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3954 cc 1794 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 266 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 391 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 7 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1442 kg 1092 kg
Vehicle Length 4900 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1840 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2470 mm