1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2008 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (302 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 618 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2008 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Express | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 3340 mm |
