2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2008 Ford Taurus X
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 Taurus X. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Taurus X would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (264 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 614 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
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, 2008 Ford Taurus X, 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, 2008 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2008 Ford Taurus X | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Nitro | Taurus X |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 72 L |
