2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2008 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (303 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 182 kg more than 2008 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2008 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2008 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 83 L |
