2002 Dodge Dakota vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 146 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Dakota | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2703 mm |
