1985 Jeep CJ vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Jeep CJ would be higher. At 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1985 Jeep CJ. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1985 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 564 kg more than 1985 Jeep CJ. 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Jeep CJ. (150 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Jeep CJ. 2008 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1985 Jeep CJ has manual transmission. 1985 Jeep CJ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Jeep CJ | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Jeep | Dodge |
| Model | CJ | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2770 mm |
