1978 Dodge Aspen vs. 2004 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Dodge Aspen would be higher. Both 1978 Dodge Aspen and 2004 Dodge Dakota are equipped with a 3,687 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1978 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 349 kg more than 1978 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Dodge Aspen | 2004 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Aspen | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 117.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1837 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 5470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3340 mm |
