2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Grand Am 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 62 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 161 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (264 Nm). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am 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. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Nitro | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
Model | Nitro | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3699 cc | 3399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 264 Nm |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1199 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 76 L |