2007 Dodge Nitro vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2007 Dodge Nitro is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 965 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Nitro | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Escort |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2768 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
