1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 14 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1997 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 125 kg more than 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Because 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Dodge | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Dakota | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 59 L |
