1995 Dodge Dakota vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1995 Dodge Dakota. (174 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1995 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 588 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Dodge Dakota. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Dodge Dakota. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1995 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1995 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Dodge Dakota | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3906 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 85 L |
