2003 Dodge Dakota vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 17 kg more than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 2009 Kia Optima 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. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Dakota | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Dodge | Kia |
Model | Dakota | Optima |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2656 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 194 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1519 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2730 mm |