2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 142 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 103 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Nissan | Chevrolet |
| Model | Xterra | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 56 L |
