2007 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Volkswagen Parati

To start off, 2007 Dodge Nitro is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Parati. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Parati would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Parati. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Parati.

Because 2007 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 2007 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Parati, 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro (360 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Parati. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Parati. 2007 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Parati has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Parati will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Dodge Nitro 1997 Volkswagen Parati
Make Dodge Volkswagen
Model Nitro Parati
Year Released 2007 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3952 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 260 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 360 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2480 mm