2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 8 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Dakota. (210 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 378 kg more than 2004 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Dodge Ram. 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (447 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Ram |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 2308 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 3569 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 98 L |
