2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 350 kg more than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
