2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2001 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 483 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Ford Explorer (320 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Dakota. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 2001 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1208 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 3200 mm |
