2002 Dodge Dakota vs. 2004 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Neon.
Because 2002 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Dodge Neon. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Dakota | 2004 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Neon |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
