2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1999 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1999 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1999 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 215 kg more than 1999 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Dodge Ram. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Dodge Dakota. 2008 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1999 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1999 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1999 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Ram | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6300 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2850 mm |
