2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 531 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
