2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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 137 more horse power than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 687 kg more than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear 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 (360 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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 | 1997 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Dodge | Toyota |
| Model | Nitro | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 2980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
