2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 450 kg more than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Nitro. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Dodge | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Nitro | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3699 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
