2008 Chevrolet Spark vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Spark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Spark would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1110 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Spark.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Spark. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2008 Chevrolet Spark has manual transmission. 2008 Chevrolet Spark will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Spark | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Spark | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 74 L |
