1971 Dodge Dart vs. 2008 Ford Fusion

To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Dart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Dart would be higher. At 3,249 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Dart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Dodge Dart (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fusion. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Dodge Dart should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Dart weights approximately 204 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Dodge Dart 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 1971 Dodge Dart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fusion, 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, 1971 Dodge Dart (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fusion. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Dodge Dart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fusion.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Dodge Dart 2008 Ford Fusion
Make Dodge Ford
Model Dart Fusion
Year Released 1971 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3249 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 99 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 217 Nm 146 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.5 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.5 mm 81.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.4:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1355 kg 1151 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4020 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2490 mm