2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 97 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 360 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Nitro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
