2005 Cadillac STS vs. 1996 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2005 Cadillac STS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 3,556 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac STS (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac STS weights approximately 266 kg more than 1996 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Cadillac STS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Cadillac STS (339 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2005 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac STS | 1996 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Cadillac | Dodge |
| Model | STS | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3556 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1796 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2850 mm |
