2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 2002 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (209 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 609 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Dodge Dakota is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Vibe, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Vibe. (175 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 2002 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Dodge | Pontiac |
| Model | Dakota | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 76 L |
