2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 2003 Dodge Dakota is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 391 kg more than 1998 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser. 1998 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Dakota | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Laser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| 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 | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
