2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2003 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 379 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
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 (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Ram. 2003 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2003 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2774 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 280 mm | 2790 mm |
