2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1990 Isuzu Impulse

To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Isuzu Impulse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Isuzu Impulse 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 50 more horse power than 1990 Isuzu Impulse. (160 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1990 Isuzu Impulse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 491 kg more than 1990 Isuzu Impulse. 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, 1990 Isuzu Impulse, 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Isuzu Impulse. (203 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Isuzu Impulse. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1990 Isuzu Impulse has manual transmission. 1990 Isuzu Impulse 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 1990 Isuzu Impulse
Make Dodge Isuzu
Model Nitro Impulse
Year Released 2009 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3701 cc 1587 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 319 Nm 203 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 8.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1691 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2460 mm