2005 Chevrolet Alero vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Alero would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Alero. (140 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Alero weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Chevrolet Alero. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Alero. (199 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Alero | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Alero | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
