1976 Dodge Aspen vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 206 kg more than 1976 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Dodge Aspen | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Aspen | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 117.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2770 mm |
