2008 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 12 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 288 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 2008 BMW X3. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2008 BMW X3 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. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1996 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | X3 | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2850 mm |
