2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1988 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Alto 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 172 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1061 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Alto. 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, 1988 Suzuki Alto, 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 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1988 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Nitro | Alto |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2180 mm |
