1976 Dodge Aspen vs. 2003 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2003 Dodge Dakota is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,686 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 71 kg more than 1976 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1976 Dodge Aspen (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Dakota. (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1976 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Dakota.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Dodge Aspen | 2003 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Aspen | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3686 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2850 mm |
