2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 2001 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (305 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Dakota. (236 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Dakota. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 2001 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 132 L |
