1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Dakota (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 83 L |
