2007 Dodge Nitro vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2007 Dodge Nitro is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 22 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Nitro | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
