2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1995 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Saturn SL 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 102 more horse power than 1995 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1995 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 636 kg more than 1995 Saturn SL. 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, 1995 Saturn SL, 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 (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Saturn SL. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1995 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1995 Saturn SL 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 | 1995 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Nitro | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1400 mm |
