2008 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1996 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 269 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Equinox.
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 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2008 Chevrolet Equinox 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 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Equinox | 1996 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Equinox | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2850 mm |
