2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2006 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 59 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Dodge Caravan. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2006 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Nitro | Caravan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2774 cc | 3309 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 280 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 76 L |
