1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2008 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 12 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 5,653 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (330 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 170 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Dodge Ram. 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2008 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Ram |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 5653 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 509 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 6350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 4080 mm |
