2011 Nissan Frontier vs. 2012 Kia Carnival
To start off, 2012 Kia Carnival is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Nissan Frontier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Nissan Frontier would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2012 Kia Carnival. (186 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Carnival.
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, 2012 Kia Carnival, 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Carnival. (246 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Carnival.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Nissan Frontier | 2012 Kia Carnival | |
Make | Nissan | Kia |
Model | Frontier | Carnival |
Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
Body Type | Pickup | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3953 cc | 2656 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 257 HP | 186 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 246 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1990 mm |