2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi

To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (64 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 480 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 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 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Citi.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Dodge Nitro 1978 Volkswagen Citi
Make Dodge Volkswagen
Model Nitro Citi
Year Released 2008 1978
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3699 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 64 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 319 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 3820 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2410 mm