2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter
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 Transporter. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Transporter would be higher. At 3,701 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 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 653 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 Volkswagen Transporter, 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 Volkswagen Transporter (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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 Volkswagen Transporter has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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 Transporter | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Transporter |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 80 L |
