2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (139 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1113 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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 (360 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1424 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 74 L |
