1998 Dodge Dakota vs. 2000 Dodge Stratus
To start off, 2000 Dodge Stratus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Dodge Stratus (161 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 95 kg more than 2000 Dodge Stratus.
Because 1998 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Dodge Stratus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2000 Dodge Stratus (218 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2000 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Dakota. 2000 Dodge Stratus has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Dakota | 2000 Dodge Stratus | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Stratus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
