2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 460 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Nitro | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |