2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. (187 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 861 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 1997 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Nissan | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Xterra | Magna |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2316 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
