2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Dodge Dakota. (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Dodge Dakota. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Dakota. (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Dakota | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 85 L |
