2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus 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 129 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1345 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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 1998 Ford Focus. 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 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus 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 | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Focus |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 53 L |
