2008 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2011 Dodge Nitro is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Focus would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 832 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
Because 2011 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 2011 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2011 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 2011 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2011 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Focus | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4544 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1791 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2764 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 74 L |
