2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1978 Dodge Aspen
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1978 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 203 kg more than 1978 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1978 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro | Aspen |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2774 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 117.5 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 280 mm | 2870 mm |
