1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 6 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, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 308 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Acura RSX. 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2003 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Dodge | Acura |
| Model | Dakota | RSX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 50 L |
