2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,774 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 371 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Saab 9000. 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Dodge | Saab |
| Model | Nitro | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2774 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 280 mm | 2670 mm |
