2008 Acura RDX vs. 2003 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 Acura RDX is newer by 5 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 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 86 kg more than 2008 Acura RDX.
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, 2008 Acura RDX (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota. 2008 Acura RDX 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. 2008 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RDX | 2003 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Acura | Dodge |
| Model | RDX | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2850 mm |
