2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2009 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 2009 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota, 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, 2009 Dodge Challenger (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Dakota. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Dakota. 2009 Dodge Challenger 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. 2009 Dodge Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Dakota | 2009 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |
