2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1981 Mercury Lynx
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 2,778 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 741 kg more than 1981 Mercury Lynx. 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 1981 Mercury Lynx. 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 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercury Lynx. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1981 Mercury Lynx | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercury |
| Model | Nitro | Lynx |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
