1992 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. (110 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 512 kg more than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Nitro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2187 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1179 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
