1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2002 Kia Optima
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 98 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Dakota 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, 2002 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2002 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Dodge | Kia |
| Model | Dakota | Optima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
