1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 4,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (175 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 305 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | El Camino | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2770 mm |
