2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra 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 146 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1387 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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 1996 Opel Astra. 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra 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 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Nitro | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
