1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2006 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2006 Toyota Highlander 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 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Toyota Highlander.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Toyota Highlander. 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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2006 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Dodge | Toyota |
| Model | Dakota | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2720 mm |
