1979 Dodge Aspen vs. 2009 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 30 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 1052 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 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Aspen | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3340 mm |
