2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer vs. 1996 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Dodge Dakota. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Dodge Dakota would be higher. At 4,155 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (269 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer should accelerate faster than 1996 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer weights approximately 623 kg more than 1996 Dodge Dakota. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (373 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Dodge Dakota. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer has automatic transmission and 1996 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1996 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer | 1996 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | TrailBlazer | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4155 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2153 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2850 mm |
