2002 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 500 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (184 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier 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:
2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
Model | Cavalier | Nitro |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 202 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 314 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1691 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1860 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 74 L |