2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2003 Proton Arena
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton Arena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton Arena would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2003 Proton Arena. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton Arena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 626 kg more than 2003 Proton Arena. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Proton Arena, 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton Arena. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton Arena. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton Arena has manual transmission. 2003 Proton Arena 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 | 2003 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Dodge | Proton |
| Model | Nitro | Arena |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
