2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1989 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fairlane. (186 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1989 Ford Fairlane (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Nitro. 1989 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Nitro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1989 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3699 cc | 3949 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2930 mm |
