2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1981 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 139 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Jimmy.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1981 GMC Jimmy | |
| Make | Dodge | GMC |
| Model | Nitro | Jimmy |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
