2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1983 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 741 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Escort, 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 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1983 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
