2009 Dodge Ram vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Nitro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Nitro would be higher. At 6,690 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (350 HP @ 3013 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Nitro. (210 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 846 kg more than 2008 Dodge Nitro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Dodge Nitro. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram 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 Ram (827 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 508 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Ram | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6690 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3013 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 827 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2537 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6300 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 74 L |
