Been thinking of replacing the Pathy so did some test driving yesterday. Now I have a few questions I could not find answers to. Maybe you guys know.

07' Nissan Frontier Nismo, King Cab, 6spd, 4x4
vs
07' Nissan Xterra Offroad, 6spd, 4x4

Rear axle on the Fronty is listed as Dana 44 but X is just listed as Dana...so whats in the X?

Something that surprised me was that the Fronty rear axle is spring over and the X is under. SO seems like the way for ground clearance so why the difference?

Overall height on the X is also considerably higher considering they have similar ground clearance. Anybody know where the center of gravity lies on both?

On a side I also thought it funny that the X ground clearance always seems to be referenced as so great but the Fronty has 1/2" more.

The X has the same rear axle as the Fronty... I would personally go with the Frontier, but either will be quite nice

The X has a shorter wheelbase and will be a bit more prone to tipping than a pickup given all the glass, etc, but they're both stable trucks.

I think as a Pathy owner you would like the X's departure angle. It's much better than the Fronty. Other than that, either is a good choice. Alot depends on what you want the rig for. Gonna haul crud and bulky items, you need the pick up. Gonna wheel with kids and associates, get the X.

..

The departure angle is a problem with the pick-ups.
... I run mild trails like Black Bear Pass in Colorado and only need a little lift but do need better departure angle. I cranked the T-bars 5/8th inch, added one inch blocks to the rear and BFG KO 31x10.50x15 tires. The truck sets high in the back and gives a slightly better view of the jagged rocks on the trail in front!
... After looking at it I could see the departure angle still need help. I removed the rear bumper as it protruded out much farther than the bed. Then added the Class III hitch to help protect the sheet metal and mount a tow hook.





HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYBODY.. Don S..

That truck is too pretty, Don. Give it to me for a week out here.

well before the Pathy I had a Mazda 4x4(real not Ford) truck and I really enjoyed the option of sleeping in the back. On trade though the Pathy as a wagon allows me to keep all my boards inside rather than on the roof.

For this discussion I was more interested in the suspension differences and offroad ability. The departure and ramp over angles are an issue. But so are looks. The X has some of the ugliest piece of plastic crap bumpers to ever be placed on a truck...well maybe an Avalache has it beat. The Fronty looks nice...

quote:

Originally posted by Desert Rat:
That truck is too pretty, Don. Give it to me for a week out here.

..
DR;...

SURE Thing... Errrrrr.... Right away...

It's been on the Colorado trails every year starting in '99 and not a pin stripe on it. I can't even believe it.

I'd hate to see what you could do to a virgin!


HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYBODY.. Don S..