2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1989 Dodge Colt
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Colt would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Colt. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1542 kg more than 1989 Dodge Colt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Dodge Colt. 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 (360 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Colt. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1989 Dodge Colt | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro | Colt |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2400 mm |
