1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2009 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 12 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Dakota. (211 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 673 kg more than 2009 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2009 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Express | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Van | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1691 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 |
