2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2002 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 3,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MPV. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MPV weights approximately 240 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MPV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MPV. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MPV. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MPV has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MPV 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 | 2002 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Nitro | MPV |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3698 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2850 mm |
