2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1989 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1989 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1989 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 204 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Because 1989 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1989 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1989 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1989 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1989 Chevrolet Astro 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 | 1989 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Dodge | Chevrolet |
| Model | Nitro | Astro |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
