1988 Austin Maestro vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1988 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1988 Austin Maestro.
Because 2011 Dodge Dakota is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Austin Maestro, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Austin Maestro | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Austin | Dodge |
| Model | Maestro | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 83 L |
