1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback 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 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 40 kg more than 2002 Subaru Outback.
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, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Dodge | Subaru |
| Model | Dakota | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2660 mm |
