2003 Dodge Ram vs. 2008 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (302 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 324 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Dodge Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Ram. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Dodge Ram | 2008 Dodge Dakota | |
Make | Dodge | Dodge |
Model | Ram | Dakota |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3906 cc | 4701 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 446 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 1746 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1750 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 3340 mm |