2005 Dodge Dakota vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2005 Dodge Dakota is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 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. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 102 kg more than 2005 Dodge Dakota.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Dakota | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3703 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1837 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 85 L |
