2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,774 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 641 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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 2003 Mazda 2. 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 @ 2600 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Nitro | 2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2774 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 71.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 280 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 45 L |
