2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1998 Kia Elan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Kia Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Kia Elan would be higher. At 2,778 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Kia Elan. (151 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1998 Kia Elan.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Kia Elan. 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 (410 Nm) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Elan. (186 Nm). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Elan. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1998 Kia Elan has manual transmission. 1998 Kia Elan 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 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Nitro | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 151 HP |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2270 mm |
