2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle would be higher. At 2,778 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 485 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. (140 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 | 1999 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
