2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2011 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2011 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Dodge Nitro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Dodge Nitro would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Buick LaCrosse (280 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 144 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Buick LaCrosse. 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Buick LaCrosse. (351 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Buick LaCrosse. 2011 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Nitro has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2011 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Dodge | Buick |
| Model | Nitro | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2774 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 280 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 70 L |
