2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1987 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 926 kg more than 1987 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1987 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2300 mm |
