1966 Jeep CJ5 vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Jeep CJ5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Jeep CJ5 would be higher. At 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1966 Jeep CJ5. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1966 Jeep CJ5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 830 kg more than 1966 Jeep CJ5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Jeep CJ5. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Jeep CJ5. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1966 Jeep CJ5 has manual transmission. 1966 Jeep CJ5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Jeep CJ5 | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Jeep | Dodge |
| Model | CJ5 | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3520 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2770 mm |
