2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2002 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,212 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Ram (220 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Ram weights approximately 134 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Ram, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Dodge Ram (408 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm). This means 2002 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Dakota. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2002 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 2002 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 2002 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Ram |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 5212 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1879 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 3530 mm |
