1997 Mitsubishi Pajero vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero.
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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero. (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero has manual transmission. 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Dodge |
| Model | Pajero | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2770 mm |
