2003 Cadillac XLR vs. 1996 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2003 Cadillac XLR is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac XLR (311 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 110 kg more than 1996 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Cadillac XLR. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2003 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac XLR | 1996 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Cadillac | Dodge |
| Model | XLR | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2850 mm |
