2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (302 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 204 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
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 Dodge Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Dakota | Explorer |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4701 cc | 3996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 446 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 45 L |