2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1989 Nissan Terrano
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Terrano. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Terrano 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 (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Terrano. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Terrano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 205 kg more than 1989 Nissan Terrano. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan Terrano 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 Nissan Terrano 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Terrano. (245 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Terrano. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1989 Nissan Terrano has manual transmission. 1989 Nissan Terrano 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 Nissan Terrano | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Nitro | Terrano |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
