1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 11 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 453 kg more than 2008 Nissan Xterra.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota. 2008 Nissan Xterra 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. 2008 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Dakota | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 80 L |
