1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 105 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2680 mm |
