2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger 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 92 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 296 kg more than 1997 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Dodge Nitro | 1997 Ford Ranger | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Nitro | Ranger |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2507 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 198 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |