2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 584 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. 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 2013 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3699 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
