2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1999 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 10 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 2,456 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1999 Dodge Dakota. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1999 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Because 1999 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 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, 1999 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1999 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber. 2009 Dodge Caliber 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. 2009 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1999 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Caliber | Dakota |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2850 mm |
