2001 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (209 HP) has 135 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 809 kg more than 2001 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 323, 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, 2004 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323. 2004 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 323 | 2004 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Mazda | Dodge |
| Model | 323 | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 209 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1956 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
