2002 Dodge Dakota vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero is newer by 3 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 3,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero (163 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 519 kg more than 2002 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero (373 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Dakota. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero has automatic transmission and 2002 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2002 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Dakota | 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Dodge | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Dakota | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 2055 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2510 mm |
