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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 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 641 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 (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 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 | 3700 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
