2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (314 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
