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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (212 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Dodge Ram. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Ram. (235 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Ram. 2008 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 3700 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 70 L |
