2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Dodge Dakota

To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 93 kg more than 2002 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Dakota.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 2002 Dodge Dakota
Make Chrysler Dodge
Model PT Cruiser Dakota
Year Released 2005 2002
Body Type Hatchback Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2213 cc 2458 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 119 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 196 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3250 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 3 seats
Vehicle Weight 1629 kg 1536 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4980 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1670 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2850 mm