2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2008 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Focus would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 960 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.

Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Focus. 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, 2008 Ford Focus (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus 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 2008 Ford Focus
Make Dodge Ford
Model Nitro Focus
Year Released 2009 2008
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3699 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 210 HP 0 HP
Torque 319 Nm 321 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1960 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 5130 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1730 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 13.1 L/100km 5.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 74 L 55 L