2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2006 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Fusion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Fusion 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 42 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fusion. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fusion.
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, 2006 Ford Fusion, 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fusion. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fusion. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Fusion 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 | 2006 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Fusion |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1570 mm |
