2005 Dodge Nitro vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Dodge Nitro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Dodge Nitro would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Nitro. (208 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 540 kg more than 2005 Dodge Nitro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Nitro. 2005 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Xterra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Nitro | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Nitro | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3704 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
