2005 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2011 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 62 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 2011 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 2011 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 2011 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Opel | Dodge |
| Model | Astra | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1979 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1832 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2764 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 74 L |
