2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 210 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 330 kg more than 2004 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2004 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Explorer (344 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1747 kg | 2077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3320 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 85 L |
