2011 Nissan Frontier vs. 2002 Acura CL

To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura CL would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2011 Nissan Frontier. (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 2011 Nissan Frontier.

Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Frontier. (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Frontier. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 2011 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2011 Nissan Frontier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2011 Nissan Frontier 2002 Acura CL
Make Nissan Acura
Model Frontier CL
Year Released 2011 2002
Body Type Pickup Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3953 cc 3210 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 257 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6900 RPM
Torque 281 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 9.8:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1800 mm