1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2006 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2006 Dodge Dakota is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 550 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2006 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2006 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2006 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Cavalier | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 83 L |
