1999 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 1999 Dodge Dakota is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 Dodge Dakota (468 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (358 Nm). This means 1999 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1999 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1999 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Dodge Dakota | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Dodge | Buick |
| Model | Dakota | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 303 HP |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3330 mm | 2837 mm |
