2005 Dodge Neon 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 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Neon.
Because 2008 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 2008 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Dodge Neon, 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Neon | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Neon | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
