2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 1986 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. (171 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 94 kg more than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan 300 ZX. 2009 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1986 Nissan 300 ZX has manual transmission. 1986 Nissan 300 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 1986 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Xterra | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
