2000 Dodge Dakota vs. 1996 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2000 Dodge Dakota is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 118 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Because 2000 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Ranger. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1996 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Dodge Dakota. (197 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Dodge Dakota | 1996 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2840 mm |
