2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2006 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 620 kg more than 2006 Mazda 2. 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, 2006 Mazda 2, 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 2. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 2 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 | 2006 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 45 L |
