1979 Dodge Aspen vs. 2008 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (302 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 281 kg more than 1979 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Dakota (446 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Dodge Aspen | 2008 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Aspen | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3340 mm |
