2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2004 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 8,276 cc (10 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Ram (493 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Ram weights approximately 408 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro. 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 2004 Dodge Ram. 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, 2004 Dodge Ram (712 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2004 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2768 cc | 8276 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 712 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 102.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 100.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 2268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 98 L |
