2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (75 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
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, 2003 Opel Astra, 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 (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (171 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra 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 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Nitro | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3698 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 4.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 52 L |
