1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 330 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Dakota | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 76 L |
