2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 101 more horse power than 2012 Mazda CX-7. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda CX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 730 kg more than 2012 Mazda CX-7. 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda CX-7. (218 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda CX-7. 2012 Mazda CX-7 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. 2012 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Xterra | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2316 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
