2006 Cadillac STS vs. 2003 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2006 Cadillac STS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac STS weights approximately 282 kg more than 2003 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Cadillac STS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2006 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 2006 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac STS | 2003 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Cadillac | Dodge |
| Model | STS | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 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 | 1818 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2850 mm |
