1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2006 Dodge Magnum
To start off, 2006 Dodge Magnum is newer by 10 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Magnum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Magnum (340 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Magnum should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Magnum weights approximately 813 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, 2006 Dodge Magnum (530 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Magnum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2006 Dodge Magnum | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Magnum |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 5654 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2343 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3050 mm |
