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 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (180 HP @ 6400 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 396 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 (319 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (285 Nm). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 74 L |
