1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 12 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
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, 2009 Subaru Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Dodge | Subaru |
| Model | Dakota | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 64 L |
