1977 Dodge Aspen vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1977 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1977 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1052 kg more than 1977 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 1977 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 (360 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 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 1977 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Dodge Aspen | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Aspen | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2770 mm |
