2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 2008 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Ford Mustang is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 3,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Mustang (210 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Mustang weights approximately 179 kg more than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 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 2008 Ford Mustang. 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, 2008 Ford Mustang (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Dakota | 2008 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 3998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2730 mm |
