1996 Dodge Dakota vs. 2009 Jeep Commander
To start off, 2009 Jeep Commander is newer by 13 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Commander (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Commander should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Commander weights approximately 825 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, 2009 Jeep Commander (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Commander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2009 Jeep Commander 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. 2009 Jeep Commander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Dakota | 2009 Jeep Commander | |
| Make | Dodge | Jeep |
| Model | Dakota | Commander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2790 mm |
