2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1375 kg more than 2006 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (360 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3952 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
