2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 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 158 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 523 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Dodge Dakota (446 Nm) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 446 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
