2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
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 Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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 140 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 581 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Dodge Nitro. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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 (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1988 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1988 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Nitro | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
Model | Nitro | Samurai |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | SUV | SUV |
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 | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Torque | 314 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2490 mm |