I'm still trying to decide whether or not to get an '05 4x4, and was wondering if there is any speed/power loss for the 4x4 model when it is in 2WD mode, when compared to the 4x2 model.
Basically, I want as fast a truck as possible, and don't want to lose any of those precious 265 horses. I just want to know if a 4x4 is exactly the same as a 4x2, only with the option of 4WD mode, or if there is actually a performance difference between the two.
I'm still trying to decide whether or not to get an '05 4x4, and was wondering if there is any speed/power loss for the 4x4 model when it is in 2WD mode, when compared to the 4x2 model.
Well, it IS heavier, so that will affect it some. Not sure how noticeable it would be though. Do you NEED a 4x4? If not, go with the 4x2, but if you live in a snowy area or might like to offroad now and then, go with the 4x4 and live with a few seconds shaved off your 0-60. Like my neighbor said, "I didn't get a 4x4 because I need one, but if I want it, it's there."
...Like my neighbor said, "I didn't get a 4x4 because I need one, but if I want it, it's there."...
That's exactly the reason why I'm considering the 4x4. Snowy conditions and offroading won't really be an issue, but I keep thinking to myself, why not have the option?
The problem is none of the dealerships in my area had a 4x4 available for a test drive, so I can't do a comparison.
The problem is none of the dealerships in my area had a 4x4 available for a test drive, so I can't do a comparison.
Well THAT bites, huh? Ask them if they can have one shipped from another dealership, you might get lucky. I'm surprised they don't have at least one in stock, they can't really expect someone to buy something they've never driven before. If they know you really want a 4x4, pending a test drive, they should be able to find a way.
We don't have a whole lot of snow here in Maryland, but enough that I traded in my '01 Ram (Club Cab longbed) after getting stuck with one wheel in the snow too many times . I haven't had the opportunity to use the 4WD on my 04 Frontier yet, but it's a real load off my mind to know that it's there if I need it (and will never have to shovel snow into my bed anymore ).
To answer your question about the performance difference, there is no difference in the engine and transmission between the 4X4 and 4X2. There is a weight difference and probably more drag due to the extra mechanical components in the front drive assembly, taller ride height, and bigger tires (if you get the NISMO). This all probably has a much bigger impact on gas mileage than performance.
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The dealership that I bought my truck from didn't have any 4x4's either, but I that was what I wanted. They guy asked me what features I was looking for and tracked one down. For $250, they had it shipped from Cincinnati to Columbus, but that $250 is only lost if you don't buy anything.
Ask them to find a 4x4 with the features you want and see if they will ship it in. If you don't like the 4x4, your $250 goes toward the 4x2. And if the dealership won't track one down for you, then they don't want your money.
. I haven't had the opportunity to use the 4WD on my 04 Frontier yet, but it's a real load off my mind to know that it's there if I need it (and will never have to shovel snow into my bed anymore 
).
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