1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 769 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Ford Zodiac. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Zodiac | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 83 L |
