2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 2012 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2012 Mazda BT-50 is newer by 4 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 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 148 more horse power than 2012 Mazda BT-50. (154 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda BT-50.
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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda BT-50. (380 Nm @ 180 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda BT-50. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda BT-50 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda BT-50 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 | 2012 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4701 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 446 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 180 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 3010 mm |
