2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 2012 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2012 Nissan Frontier 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, both vehicles can yield 261 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 536 kg more than 2009 Nissan Xterra.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 381 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 2012 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Xterra | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
