2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura RL 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 5 more horse power than 1998 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 16 kg more than 1998 Acura RL. 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, 1998 Acura RL, 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura RL. 1998 Acura RL 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. 1998 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Dodge | Acura |
| Model | Nitro | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 50 L |
