1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 30 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2011 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | G | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3340 mm |
