1997 Dodge Copperhead vs. 2005 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2005 Dodge Nitro is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Copperhead. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Copperhead would be higher. At 3,704 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Copperhead (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Nitro. (208 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Copperhead should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 570 kg more than 1997 Dodge Copperhead.
Because 2005 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Copperhead. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Copperhead. (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2005 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Copperhead. 2005 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Copperhead has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Copperhead will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Copperhead | 2005 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Copperhead | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2700 cc | 3704 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
