2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee would be higher. At 3,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (175 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 119 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Because 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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, 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (301 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
| Make | Dodge | Jeep |
| Model | Nitro | Grand Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 3960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
