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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 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 (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 146 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. 2003 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. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 4605 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 207 HP | 236 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 382 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2840 mm |