2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2000 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 431 kg more than 2000 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Opel Astra, 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Nitro | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2000 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 52 L |
