2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1980 Dodge Aspen
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1980 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1980 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Dodge Aspen weights approximately 224 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 1980 Dodge Aspen 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 1980 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Dodge Aspen. (232 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1980 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Traverse | Aspen |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 117.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2870 mm |
