1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2003 Dodge Dakota is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 90 kg more than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2850 mm |
