2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
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 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Nitro | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3698 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 52 L |
