2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1998 Ford Ka
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Ka 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 151 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 811 kg more than 1998 Ford Ka. 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 Ford Ka, 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1998 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Ka |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 40 L |
