1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 409 kg more than 1996 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2003 Ford Explorer 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. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3490 mm |
