The '05 Xterras have a worse breakover angle causing them to high center on obstacles that pre '05s crawl over. I've wheeled with a bunch of '05s this summer and they are constantly needing a strap or using their lockers. In my opinion, if one adds a locker to their rig that should mean they just increased their capability and are ready to tackle more challenging obstacles. It shouldn't mean that they can now do the SAME obstacles that pre '05 Xterras do without a locker.

I would give anything for the larger engine but for offroad prowess I'll stick with my '02.