2011 Dodge Nitro vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
To start off, 2011 Dodge Nitro is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Phoenix would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 732 kg more than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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, 2011 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Dodge Nitro | 1983 Pontiac Phoenix | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Nitro | Phoenix |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1832 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4544 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1857 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1791 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2764 mm | 2670 mm |
