1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2011 Dodge Dakota. (210 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Dodge Dakota. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 365 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2011 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | S | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3340 mm |
