2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,778 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 417 kg more than 2004 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (410 Nm) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2286 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 74 L |
